- Be aware of your posture
To improve your posture, the first step is to be aware of it. You should always sit or stand up straight, with your shoulders back and your head held high. Slouching or hunching over can put unnecessary strain on your back muscles, leading to aches and pains.
- Stretch and strengthen your muscles
Stretching and strengthening your muscles is the second step towards better posture. Focus on stretching your chest, neck, and shoulder muscles, as well as strengthening your core and back muscles. This can be done through exercises such as planks, bridges, rows, chin tucks and back extensions. These exercises will help improve your posture and reduce the risk of developing back pain.
- Take breaks and move around
The third and final step is to take frequent breaks and move around. Sitting or standing in the same position for long periods of time can cause your muscles to become tense and lead to bad posture. Take a short walk, stretch, or even do some light exercises to keep your muscles loose and flexible. This will help alleviate any tension and promote better posture.
Set a timer that goes off every 30 minutes saying “posture” or “move.” This external reminder is a great way to help with your posture. Set it on your smart phone or Outlook!
Maintaining good posture is essential for a healthy body and mind. By being aware of your posture, stretching and strengthening your muscles, and taking breaks to move around, you can improve your posture and reduce the risk of developing back pain. So, start implementing these tips today and enjoy the benefits of better posture!
Keep smiling and remember, life is too short to take everything seriously – except for good posture!
Brittney, Braegelmann, PT, DPT, SCS