subject: Posture Perfect: The Importance Of Good Posture For Health [print this page] Proper posture, is the optimum alignment of our skeletal structure for normal functioning and well being. The way we hold our body not only effects the way we look, but also how our body feels and has an impact on our general health. Adopting good posture can have a positive effect on our whole life.
How Posture Affects Health
Correct posture has a systemic effect on the body's vitality, and is necessary to maintain health as well as physical comfort. Below are some of our bodily functions which benefit from the effects of good posture:
* Vital Organs (lungs, kidneys, pelvic organs and digestive organs are all supported by structures in proper alignment for functioning)
* Eyesight (problems can occur when nerves become irritated or misaligned)
* Breathing & lungs (correct posture allows for full expansion in the thoracic space)
* Arm & neck flexibility (reduced by poor posture)
* Bowel movement (constipation and poor absorption can be caused in poor posture)
* Muscular support to pelvic organs (supported by muscles in correct alignment)
* Jaw movement (even how we chew is affected by our posture!)
* Flatter abdominal muscles (Good posture can help us to look thinner too!)
When our body is aligned properly it takes pressure and strain away from supporting structures such as bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments and helps is remain in a relaxed, supple and flexible state. Adopting good posture gives us more energy, less aches and pains and can even improve the quality of our sleep.
Changes In Posture
Over time the body adopts changes in posture from habits which are not always beneficial to us, and at worst are detrimental to our health. Many associate the changes with ageing, however often the cause of poor posture is prolonged inactivity or slumping. Certain changes do occur with age, such as a natural deterioration in the cartilage of knees and hips, and the vertebral discs become less elastic which can exaggerate signs of stiffness, tendons can also be less flexible. However, with proper exercise and training in being aware of your body, you can improve its performance regardless of your age.
Ways To Adopt Good Posture
Try to be aware of your posture throughout the day. When you are at work, sitting, driving or if you are lifting or carrying objects. Are you comfortable? Is your back in a vulnerable position? Are you putting strain on your lumbar spine? By becoming aware of our posture in daily activities, we can correct bad habits, with a little advice. The most common sources of poor posture resulting in back problems are:
* Computer posture- (be careful not to extend chin out to screen)
* Sitting posture (avoid crossing legs or slouching)
* Poor quality mattress or sleeping posture
* Lifting in the wrong position
* Carrying heavy loads incorrectly.
By adopting good posture we can avoid painful conditions. Since most of us don't have perfect posture, your best bet is to go see your Chiropractor for regular Chiropractic adjustments.
