Listen up you slouchers! Never, and I mean never, get tired of the term “stand up straight!” No joke. I’m writing this article right now and I’m telling everyone who can hear me to push their shoulders back!
Good posture is so very important for all of us: to reduce chronic pain, fatigue, and to yes, reduce the appearance of extra body fat. Here are some tips I try and follow (I have to remind myself…)
Tip #1: Look into a mirror. Stand to the side and imagine you are drawing a line starting from your earlobes all the way down to your ankles. Make sure that your weight is evenly distributed. Although these points should make a straight line don’t be worried if your back curves into a slight S shape. It’s natural… literally!
Tip #2: If the sound of your joints cracking makes your skin crawl try Pure Barre, a new ballet/pilates-inspired workout sensation designed to ease joint tension in all kinds of movement. I tried Pure Barre with some friends (and yes, my sister is an instructor, so I got a great deal ). Over a few sessions I could tell that my balance and maintaining good posture were improved. I’m going to stick with it. And from what I’m reading and hearing, Pure Barre is taking off. The SwimSpot team is going to take a class together once a week. No excuses!
Tip #3: While standing, keep your feet shoulder width apart, let your arms hang naturally, and tuck your chin to make sure your head is “all squared up.” This may feel awkward at first but keep your shoulders up and out and hold that pretty head of yours up high! Remain in this position while walking and make sure to keep your shoulders back and avoid pushing your head forward. No one wants to look like a duck! Unless you were forced to attend the University of Oregon.
Tip #4: In the car for hours at a time like I am? Sit the correct way in your seat. Push your back and neck firmly against the middle of the seat and avoid leaning forward and/ or over-reaching if you are the lucky one driving. I also try and make sure my lower back and lumbar is supported. Most newer cars provide extra lumbar support. Either way, I add a pillow for long road trips.
Tip #5: Finally ease your posture pain while sleeping. Start with a firm mattress and sleep on your back, which is far better for you than sleeping on your stomach or side. Sometimes I sleep with a pillow under my knees. This helps flatten my back, which eases pain in my lower back.
If any of these tips hurt, stop silly! Lots of gals and guys are shaped differently; it’s important to find the right technique that works for you. Go make it happen! Even I had to remind myself roughly 20 times to straighten up while writing this. So, I’m on a mission to perk up my posture. Who wants to join me?
Cheers-
Marisa
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