Slouching shoulders, a humped back and bent neck are signs of poor posture, which can lead to back or neck pain. If you are looking for ways to improve your posture, consider focusing on proper body positioning while seated or standing. These adjustments require very little effort and can help prevent future problems. Speak to your doctor for more information on how to improve your posture naturally.
Know Your Body
One of the best ways to correct poor posture while seated or standing is to simply be aware of your body positioning. Ask yourself if you are slouching at the moment, or if you are walking tall. Remaining aware of your body's posture can help you not only prevent slouching shoulders or a rounded back, but also help alleviate pain associated with straining muscles. Poor posture is easy to slip into, the Spine Universe website advises. Making posture checks while at home, at work, or even driving in your car can help ingrain good posture habits over time.
Remain Flexible
Stretching your muscles and joints once a day will help you stay limber and flexible throughout the day, which can also lead to improved posture. One stretch that is effective in keeping your back muscles loose is the "hug a friend" technique, Spine Universe reports. This stretch entails crossing your arms over your chest and around your torso, as if you were hugging yourself. Next, rotate your upper body at your hips as far as you can to the right, followed by a stretch to the left. Repeat this exercise each day to achieve best results and to stay flexible.
Exercises
Strengthening your abdominal and back muscles will help your body better support your spine. According to the Think Simple Now website, one exercise you can use is the superman pose. While lying on your stomach on a smooth, flat surface, fully extend your arms and legs as if you were in a "flying" pose. Next, lift your right arm and left leg off the ground while keeping your torso in place. Hold this position for two seconds before lowering both limbs back to starting position. Repeat this process with both sides of your body to build a strong core.
