The Importance of Posture

Good balance is achieved through good posture. Many daily activities require and thrive off of good balance and range from simply getting out of a chair to running a marathon. Not only can improving balance through posture help people achieve better results, but it can also help prevent future injuries.

Some people’s bad posture is not as simple as a bad habit but can be caused by “inflexible muscles that decrease range of motion” or “muscle strength” (Harvard Health Publishing). Old injuries and muscle adhesions can also contribute to poor posture. As the shoulder slump, the head moves forward of the body creating changes that cascade all the way down the body. Over time, these misalignments contribute to a decrease in circulation throughout the entire body, including the organ systems themselves. Although posture may seem difficult to fix and improve, there are many different methods and ways to help achieve good posture and balance.

How to Improve Posture

There are a variety of ways that people can improve their posture and balance. Some of these different methods can be completed in the gym or simply at the office. First, people should do quick posture checks in the mirror while at the gym or walking around on a shopping day. Second, try out some balance improving workouts, which can help build muscle where it’s needed the most and improve balance and posture. Other simple posture-improving tasks might include:

keeping your chin parallel with the floor
making sure your shoulders are even
keeping a neutral spine, making sure to sit up straight
keeping arms and hips even with the body
keeping knees and feet pointed ahead

(Harvard Health Publishing)

At Mind and Body Fitness Connection’s Zen Zone, classes are offered that help restore balance, flexibility and good posture. Get more information about the Zen Align class here and start improving your posture and health today!