Fabulous Fit Tip #5

Fit Tip #5: PERFECT POSTURE

Spoiler alert, there’s no such thing as perfect posture, at least not in my book. A lot of us have hang ups about our posture, especially if we have ever been told we have “bad posture.” Fantastic–one more thing to feel guilty about. However, posture is an important component for our fitness and our health. So, the first thing to do is to let go of the judgement, and follow these 3 easy tips to improve your posture.

1). Stand with your back up against a wall with your feet slightly in front of you. Gently press the back of your head, both shoulders, and your buttocks into the wall. Slowly add a bit more pressure against the wall, and notice how the shape of your spine changes. Stop and relax for a moment, and repeat this several times. This activates the postural muscles you need for a strong spine as well as a flatter tummy. Score!

2). Put a book on your head. No, I’m not kidding. Models and charm schools have practiced this little secret for years, because it works. You can start in sitting to get used to balancing the book on your head. Then progress to standing and walking with the book on your head. For an additional challenge, play with standing up from a chair, walking around, and sitting down again with the book on your head.

3). Lie down on the floor with your knees bent and your feet standing on the floor. This bent knee position eliminates the strain on your low back with your legs straight. Also, since most of us have a “forward head” position, you will need to put a pad or a firm pillow (or more) under your head to place your head in alignment with your spine. Open your arms out to the side with your palms facing the ceiling. Breathe, relax, and let gravity open your chest and extend your thoracic spine. Yes, it’s that easy.

There are so many health benefits of correcting your posture, and many detrimental conditions that result in poor postural alignment. Click on the links for more information.

Healthy Posture, Healthy Body

Effortless posture……finding your spine.