Posture is something that is often forgotten, yet it has a significant bearing on your health and well-being. When you suffer from back pain and neck stress, you may find yourself taking painkillers or going for a massage, when improved posture could be the answer. In order to refine your posture, you must first recognize the areas in which your posture is lacking. Adjusting your space and stretching your body can also help you to remember to keep your body aligned throughout the day.
Look in the Mirror
You can't begin to improve and refine your posture without seeing first where you need to improve. Stand in front of the mirror in the position you would normally stand, and evaluate your posture. Your shoulders should be square to the mirror and relaxed. If you haven't got a mirror nearby, check yourself out as you pass by a shop window, suggests "USA Today." You'll get a good idea of what you look like when walking, and be more clearly aware of stooped, slouched shoulders.
Adjust Your Space
An uncomfortable workspace can be the kiss of death for good posture. As you sit at your desk chair, you may slouch or stoop your shoulders to type on your keyboard, or rely on your chair's backrest too often. Ensure that your workspace is situated correctly. Your chair should scoot close to the desk and have padding, notes McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois. Your knees and elbows should bend at a 90-degree angle. Look for an ergonomic chair that has lumbar support. Ensure that your keyboard and monitor are placed where you can see them easily without having to stoop closer.
Take a Break
Sitting or standing in the same position for a long period of time can be dangerous for your posture and interrupt your posture refinement. Anytime your body is forced to be in the same position for too long, you may begin to feel stuff or slouch. No matter how ergonomic your chair is, you should still get up and move around at regular intervals, notes the Spine Health website. Take a walk, stretch or a have a little rest to realign your body and give you a constant reminder to maintain proper posture.
Stretch Often
Completing certain stretches throughout the day can help you keep you posture at the forefront of your mind so it's constantly improving. It can also help relieve pain associated with poor posture. Hold your head upright and tuck your chin into your chest for a few seconds, suggests Harvard Medical School. Or sit up straight and attempt to touch your shoulder blades together. When you release your body from these stretches, you can readjust your posture. If necessary, set a timer on your computer or phone for 30 minutes and stop and stretch each time it chimes.
