Posture, a life skill you must learn straightaway
Man is slouching his way into the future - slouched over computers, hunched over mobile phones and lounging in front of the TV. As we drag our deconditioned selves to achieve great intellectual heights, our body is neglected to the point of serious concern.
Poor posture causes our muscles to work harder. Even though we seem to be more relaxed, we end up in fatigue. There are even studies which show that maintaining bad posture for 30 minutes straight can lead to depression. How we stand, sit and walk affects not only our appearance and self- image — it is in fact a determinant of our health. Of course, we all know how poor body mechanics can invite all sorts of aches and pains. Overlook them and soon, diseases creep in — diabetes, heart problems and others.
There are also many myths revolving around posture.
Here are some tips for the ideal posture:
1. Understand your body — look at how you are sitting/ standing right now. Your body is not meant to be slouched over a keyboard or a mobile. If that doesn't hurt you now, it soon will. So make an effort to correct yourself every single time.
2. Sitting correctly means keeping feet flat, knees uncrossed with a small gap between the back of your knees and the edge of the chair. Keep the forearms and knees parallel to the floor wherever possible.
3. Standing correctly means your weight is distributed equally between your feet and your shoulders aren't hunched. Tuck your tummy in and stand straight and tall with your chin slightly tucked in.
4. Use a standing desk — great ergonomics work wonders. Use a standing desk. Stand, as often as you can.
5. Your posture needs training, not advice! In the middle of writing that long email, we find our bodies slouched up again. Why? Just straightening your joints won't help. You need strong muscles! Strong muscles. Do not forget.
6. Ten minutes every hour. Don’t stagnate yourself over your desk. Walk around, get some errands done in the old fashioned way.
Next time you find yourself slouching, remember to correct that nasty posture and invest in your future self.