Health is a priority for most people, especially with eating habits and exercise. But how often do you think about your posture? You might be surprised to find out that good posture leads to a long list of health benefits—and that poor posture can cause countless problems. Follow these tips to start correcting your posture and living healthier.
Better Posture Comes with Many Benefits
Over time, improved posture can change the way you feel. You’ll feel less strain throughout your body and may notice decreased back pain. But as you position your spine correctly, other improvements can occur.
Better circulation, easier digestion, and deeper breathing are all possible side effects of a happier spine. If headaches or pinched nerves keep you up at night, those may dissipate too. You may also feel more confident and happy while maintaining good posture.
Read on for ways to build better posture and reap all the benefits.
See a Chiropractor for Healthy Spine Support
Whether you’ve sustained an injury or experienced pain from years of poor posture, seeing a chiropractor may help. Chiropractic care helps improve your posture through small adjustments that support healthy alignment. Less tension, better balance, and increased flexibility are all potential benefits of chiropractic adjustments.
Most health insurance policies cover chiropractic care, so check your coverage today. If you don’t have coverage because of the cost, look into your state’s subsidized programs to find good coverage and a lower price.
Build Core Strength for a Stronger Spine
Spinal adjustments can correct unhealthy posture, but building spine strength is necessary for long-term health. Many exercises help strengthen your spine and core, including crunches, planks, and more.
Stretching goes hand-in-hand with core exercises to build strength and flexibility in your back. Many yoga poses and similar stretches are healthy additions to your spine-strengthening regimen, says Healthline. Stretching can release tension and avoid muscle strain while exercising.
Try Walking More
Even simply walking every day can make a big difference in your overall health and your spine strength. Find a walk-friendly area with sidewalks and start a healthy routine. Pay attention to how your body feels as you walk and adjust your movements slightly until you feel the right muscles engaging.
Stand Up Straight and Tall
Standing up straight may sound simple, but in doing so, you practice healthy posture. Stand tall with your shoulders back and chin parallel to the floor. Proper posture helps balance your body and can even help you feel more confident. If you still have your doubts, learn more about your favorite celebrities’ heights and pay attention to their posture. You’ll likely see that even the shorter people stand tall and exude confidence.
Overhaul Your Home Office
Though injuries and poor posture often create spine problems, being sedentary or straining your body can cause issues, too. Add stress on top of that, and you have a recipe for not just spine problems but other physical ailments and mental pressure.
Setting up a stress-free home office positions you for success physically, mentally, and more. Ergonomic seating is one way to support good posture, but consider other elements of your work environment and change things up.
Remember to take time away from your desk to stretch, walk around, and otherwise nourish your body and mind.
Stop Tech Neck In Its Tracks
Technology is everywhere, but many people spend a lot of time looking down—at their phones, that is. It’s led to a condition called tech neck, says Everyday Health, that damages your spine, nerves, and muscles. Tech neck can lead to posture issues, pain, numbness, headaches, and more.
Maintaining proper posture while using your devices is the only way to eliminate the risk of tech neck. Experts suggest holding your phone at eye level and adjusting your computer monitor at a natural viewing height.
Take Steps to Strengthen Your Spine
When it comes to changing your posture, consistency and dedication are crucial. Undoing the habit of poor posture takes time and, often, professional care. But putting in the work to stand taller can lead to countless benefits and a healthier spine for years to come.