What is posture important?
Posture is a vital component of spine health as maintaining correct posture may prevent spinal deterioration and future injury. It is important in all aspects of your daily activities including posture at work, sleeping, and even at the dinner table with loved ones.
Understanding that your body needs proper support, frequent movement breaks, core-strengthening exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, and using ergonomics to reduce strain can keep the spine aligned and muscles balanced to prevent tension, stiffness, and long-term issues.
Here are some examples for maintaining posture at your home and desk while at work:
Sitting: Keep feet flat, knees at 90 degrees, shoulders relaxed back, and use lumbar support for your lower back’s natural curve; avoid crossing legs.
Standing: Distribute weight evenly, keep shoulders back, stomach tucked, head level, and knees slightly bent.
Ergonomics: Position screens at eye level to prevent “tech neck” and use supportive chairs/footrests.
Other helpful tips:
Keep moving: Stand, stretch, or walk every 30 minutes to relieve pressure from prolonged sitting.
Maintain muscle and stretch often: Engage core muscles with activities like yoga or specific exercises to support the spine.
Drink, drink, drink: Staying hydrated supports spinal disc health and helps eliminate toxins from the body they may be contributing to lower energy levels.
Manage Stress: Deep breathing and meditation reduce tension that can affect the spine.
Foot support: Wear shoes with good arch support or consider orthotics if needed.
What about sleep?
*Keep your ears, shoulders, and hips aligned during sleep.
*Support your neck and legs with pillows using the fetal position to maintain spinal alignment.
*Invest in a good mattress.