What is good posture?

Posture refers to how you position your body when you are sitting, standing and lying down. It is a result of habits formed during our early years and not many of us escaped being told to 'sit up straight' as a child. This was great advice from parents and teachers, even if they didn't know why!

We need to train ourselves to work against gravity and hold a position that places the least strain and tension on the muscles and ligaments that support the body. This good posture helps to keep bones and joints in alignment and reduces the wear and tear brought about by daily life.

Many of us spend our days sitting at a desk or stood on our feet, so with today's lifestyles it is more important than ever to spare a though for our posture. There is no doubt that good posture takes practice and a conscious effort, fortunately with items like our Posture Brace there is some help at hand.

How posture affects health.

Neck and back pain:  A good posture and correct aligment helps your spine move easily and support your weight without straining. Without good posture additional stress is places on muscles, ligaments and tendons, leading to back and neck pain.

Spine health:  Proper alignment when you are sitting or standing improves blood flow, keeping nerves and blood vessels healthy and ensuring a good supply to muscles, ligaments and tendons.

Risk of Osteoarthritis:  When you have good posture your muscles and frame operate as they should, reducing abnormal wear and tear. Poor posture and the increased wear is a common cause of Osteoarthritis.

Improved digestion:  Stooping and slouching can restrict abdominal organs and interfere with digestion. If you are prone to acid reflux and constipation, sitting up striaght may bring some relief.

Improved mood:  When we are happy we often stand or sit tall and proud, as opposed to the huddle or hunch of a bad mood. As strange as it sounds, as part of a feedback loop, our posture can help our mood - standing up straight makes us feel better and feeling better makes us stand up straight.