bodies Back CHAT
Rachael Finch, founder of B.O.D. fitness program, talks about the importance of good posture
As we age, the spine tends to bend and our back begins to round, so maintaining alignment and posture is important. Good posture brings with it a host of benefits: it improves body alignment, reduces back and neck pain and improves breathing. You’ll also look taller, slimmer and more confident. If good posture doesn’t come naturally, incorporate small practices into your daily routine.
CORE STRENGTH
A strong core is essential for good posture. Your core and your back muscles support your back. Aim to include strength and toning circuits to help with building muscle and general tone.
STAY FLEXIBLE
Yoga and Pilates are great practices to lengthen and stretch out muscles. Stretching sessions can help keep you limber and increase your range of motion.
CHILD’S PLAY
Try the yoga position Child’s Pose. In a kneeling position, drop your buttocks onto your heels, separate your knees and bend forward with your arms outstretched, resting your forehead on the floor.
DESK DUTY
If you sit at your computer most days, it’s easy to slip into poor posture. Always sit on a straight-backed chair with your bottom pushed to the back, your shoulders dropped and your feet flat on the ground. Your computer screen should be at eye level, so elevate your computer screen by putting it on top of books or a box if you need to raise it up.