LIFESTYLE

Self-confidence can be seen through the way you dress, the way you act, sit, walk, and talk. When you stand or sit up straight with your shoulders pulled backwards, your brain signals that you are a responsible, self-confident person, and thus, you are more likely to make the good choices.

It is very important to maintain a straight posture not only to boost your confidence, but also to maintain a good health and prevent pain in the back, shoulders and neck that result in a poor posture. It is never too late to improve your walking, sitting, standing and even lying down to have a good posture. All you have to do is get rid of bad habits that lead to poor posture, although it is sometimes difficult to change them.

 

Correct standing posture

You should practice standing up straight to be able to improve your posture, even if it seems hard at first. Keep your chin parallel to the floor, lift your shoulders upwards, pull your belly inward, and naturally release your arms on both sides of the body.

 

Sitting behind the desk

Relaxing muscles and bending over the computer screen while you work seems very easy and comfy, however, it is not a good choice for your body posture. Thus, sit fully on your chair and lay your back on the chair. You can place a small wrapped towel or pillow behind the middle of the back to protect the spine curve. Bend your knees upright and keep the height straight or maybe slightly higher than your hips. Lay your entire feet flat on the floor.

 

Text-neck

Do you spend most of the time on your cell phone? Take a few minutes to stretch the neck muscles, because the more you put pressure on this area, the more your spine is affected and this will worsen your body posture.  The best thing to do is lift the phone slightly up, and instead of moving your head, move your eyes to check the phone.

 

Driving Position

Adjust your car seat to maintain a good posture while driving. Make sure the distance between the car seat and the steering wheel is right: you must not be too close or too far from the steering wheel and the pedals. Also, adjust the headrest so that it hits the center of your head. Make sure to keep your back against the seat and your head parallel to the headrest.

Noting that a good driving position is safer, because your car's protective systems protect you best when you are sitting properly in the seat.

 

Flat shoes

It is best to leave pumps and stilettos for events or a night out, and replace them with flat or wedge shoes for daily wear. High heels will definitely make you look better and more stylish, however, it may be harmful for your body posture. High heels increase pressure on the nerves and the weight of the knees, causing back pain with time.

 

Sleeping Position

No matter whether you sleep on your back, stomach, or side, adding pillows can help provide support. Add a pillow anywhere there's a space between your body and the bed’s mattress. For example, if you are sleeping on your back, be sure to place a small pillow under your knees. For the head, choose a comfortable and supportive pillow. If you are sleeping on your side, place the pillow between your knees.

 

Exercise

Too much weight around your belly puts added stress on your back. You need strong muscles to support your spine. Therefore, you must exercise to tone your abs and muscles or strengthen your back and shoulder muscles to improve your posture. Exercise regularly to maintain a good health. Check the following video that includes a set of exercises you can do at home to strengthen the back muscles and improve your posture: