Posture is a term you’ve probably heard numerous times in your lifetime, whether it be in relation to office equipment or possibly even how we sleep. But what does posture mean? 
 
Well, posture refers to the position your body is in and how you’re holding yourself. This can be when you’re standing up, sitting, or lying down. 
 
Good posture occurs when you’re in the position which leads to the least amount of strain being placed upon the ligaments and muscles during weight-bearing activities or movement. For example, when you’re sitting, standing, walking, or lying down. 
 
The proper alignment of your spine allows you to move easily, so that your body supports your weight without strain. Poor posture can place stress on tendons, muscles, and ligaments, which can lead to pain. The most common pain that occurs from bad posture is neck or back pain. 

How can I achieve good posture? 

To maintain good posture, you need to: 
 
- Keep your bones and joints in the correct postural alignment 
 
- Decrease the amount of infrequent wearing of joint surfaces 
 
- Reduce the amount of stress on your spine 
 
- Prevent the spine from being in the same unnatural position for long periods of time (in other words, avoid slouching) 

What causes bad posture? 

Poor posture results from muscles tightening and shortening while others are being lengthened and therefore becoming weaker. There are many factors that can impact posture. The following are some examples of things that can negatively affect posture: 
 
 
- Use of technology (mobile phones, televisions, computers, etc.) 
 
- Muscle tension and weakness 
 
- Injury 
 
- Poor footwear 
 
- Leading a sedentary lifestyle 
 
- Increased stress and anxiety 

What else can I do to get better posture? 

One thing that can help reduce stress and anxiety, in turn helping your posture, is getting regular massages. To find out more about the massages we offer, get in touch with a member of the Fire & Earth team today. 
Tagged as: alignment, Posture, spine
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