Why Should We Care About Posture?

Posture is the way in which you hold your body when standing or sitting. Perfecting your posture is all about the alignment of the spine in relation to the head, shoulders, and hips. But why is it important? Good posture is key to overall health, not only can it prevent aches and pains but it can help with energy levels, confidence and to prevent injury from sports and general exercise. Bad posture, on the other hand, isn’t just aches and pains. It can also lead to headaches, digestive issues and even lung issues. In the world we live in, with a large number of people working at a desk and glued to screens, it’s unfortunately become the norm to have bad posture.

What does good posture actually look like?

Standing Posture

Good posture when standing means your head, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles are aligned in a straight vertical line. Your shoulders and neck are stacked over the hips, the chest is lifted, and the abdomen is gently engaged, the spine should maintain its natural curves.

Common issues with poor standing posture:

• Curved upper back and hunched shoulders
• Head juts forward, creating neck tension
• Collapsed chest and hollow lower back
• Weight unevenly distributed

Seated Posture

When seated, good posture involves keeping the head, neck and shoulders aligned directly over the hips. The shoulders should be relaxed and slightly rolled back, allowing the lungs to open fully. The spine should retain its natural curves, with feet on the floor and knees roughly at hip level.

Common issues with poor seated posture:

• Forward head and rounded shoulders, leading to a slouched appearance
• Exaggerated upper back curve
• Compressed chest
• Unsupported neck, this can cause brain fog

What are the best exercises for perfecting your posture?

Aside from correcting your posture by following the above guide, there are some exercises to help you along the way.

Try this shoulder and neck stretch demonstrated by Senior Practitioner Peter here.

Another great exercise for posture is the Cat Cow, April’s Stretch of the Month, demonstrated  by Senior Practitioner Adrian here.