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How to Maintain Proper Posture while Sitting


When it comes to general health, posture is considered to be at the bottom list.

Why? Because of this mindset that your young body can cope up with anything. And poor posture is the most overlooked bad habit because aside from the fact that you feel good, you’re not fully aware that you’re causing harm to your body, the kind of harm that it usually does to your body is something that has to be built-up over time.

But it’s high time that you break that mindset and start observing proper posture.

Proper posture is as important as eating a balanced diet, doing adequate exercise, getting a good night's sleep, and avoiding potentially harmful substances like alcohol, drugs and nicotine.

Good posture helps you perform your daily tasks with more energy, less stress and fatigue. Plus, it deters the development of any health complication brought about by uneven distribution of pressure, especially on your spine.

But what if your job involves prolonged sitting? What should you do to maintain proper posture?


Take Note of the Normal Spinal Curve

 

Your spine has a natural S-curve. It wasn’t meant to be rigid. This structure is intended to work like a coiled spring to maintain balance, to absorb shock, and to facilitate the full range of motion.

So if you’re at work sitting on your executive office chair, your buttocks should touch the back of your chair. From there, your upper back will lean naturally against the back of your chair.

The tendency to slouch would usually start if your buttocks are resting on the middle or on the edge of your seat. You feel relaxed in this position because you’re using less muscles to support your upper back.

 

Adjust your Chair


Your chair should be adjusted according to the height of your desk, whether you are using a regular task chair or an office chair for posture. No matter how functional your chair is in as much as posture correction is concerned, it will not serve its purpose if you do not know how to sit properly.

Also, remember to keep your feet flat on the floor. When you’re sitting on a chair that rolls and pivots, don't twist at the waist. Instead, turn your whole body. This will avoid straining your middle back.

Correct office ergonomics also helps in keeping a good posture and makes working easier, considering everything is within your reach and are arranged accordingly.

 

Take Regular Breaks


Holding a static sitting position for longer periods increases pressure on your back and pelvis. Distribute the stress to the rest of your body by stretching or walking around.

It also facilitates proper circulation. If your muscles receive the ample amount of blood supply, you wouldn’t feel fatigued and your energy levels would be sustained throughout the day.

These are only some of the ways to maintain proper posture during prolonged sitting. Observing good posture may be straining at the beginning, especially if your body has already developed the bad habit of relaxed poor gait.

Whether you choose to start with an office chair for back problems or immediately enroll in a fitness or posture program, you will surely see the positive changes, only if you’re committed to that proper posture lifestyle.

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