No matter what you do, spend an ever increasing amount of time hunched over screens and slouched in chairs. The way we sit, stand, and even rest and sleep, cumulatively has a profound impact on our musculoskeletal health and wellbeing.
Stress, poor posture and ergonomics can contribute to repetitive strain injuries and pain symptoms, making it crucial to address this issue to lead a healthier life.
Link Between Good Posture and Wellbeing
Good posture is not just about standing up straight; it is about optimising the body’s alignment and movement in activities so that the task may be achieved with efficiency and minimal wear and tear. Indeed, to stay well, one must move well.
One of the most significant benefits of good posture and ergonomics is the reduction of musculoskeletal pain. Proper alignment of the spine and joints ensures that the body’s weight is evenly distributed, minimising undue stress in certain areas such as the neck, shoulders, back, and hips.
Repetitive strain injuries are often a result of poor posture combined with repeated, improper movements, or sometimes insufficiency thereof.
Last but not least, good posture can boost your self-esteem and overall mood. When you stand or sit tall, you breathe better and feel better. Not only will you appear more confident to others, but you also send positive signals to your brain, improving your emotional state.
Good Posture is What you Practice
Maintaining good posture is a habit that takes some initial effort, but it is well worth the attention and once the habit is formed, you forget that you are doing it. Here are some tips to help you achieve and maintain proper posture:
- Ergonomic Workspace: Set up your workspace ergonomically with an adjustable chair, keyboard, and monitor to ensure your body is properly aligned. Structure your environment so it helps keep your good posture and work habits.
- Regular Movement: Incorporate regular stretching and strengthening exercises to maintain blood flow and flexibility in your muscles. If you do spend a lot of time sitting, structure your work place so you have to stand up and walk away from your chair from time to time. For example, put the printer on a different desk or in a different room.
- Get Professional Guidance: Consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on improving and maintaining good posture.