Do you ever take a moment to check-in with yourself throughout the day? Perhaps you are getting overwhelmed, so you take a moment to think about what you can do to reevaluate your course of action. Maybe you find yourself to be irritable, and realize you worked well past lunch. Well, check-ins are important for your posture, too!
Do you check the way you are standing or sitting throughout the day? Do you make sure that your weight is distributed evenly? You probably already know how important proper posture is to your spine, but did you know it also affects your mood? A number of studies have shown that good posture can have a positive effect your mood and can even eliminate stress. Here’s what you need to know.
Small Corrections: They Can Be Effective
Calling all dog-lovers: have you ever tried to read your dog’s mood? You know that if they tuck their tail between their legs and hold their head down, something isn’t right. The same concept applies to humans. Do you stand tall with your shoulders back and neck tall? Or do you walk around with your shoulders slumped and your head held low? Erik Peper, Ph.D., and professor of Health Education at San Francisco State University, led a study that found individuals who walk with a slumped posture can have feelings of depression and diminished energy.
Okay, so individual who slouch can feel depressed…so can anyone, right? Well, this same study found that those negative feelings can be reversed by correcting one’s posture! Who would have thought that you could improve your mood just by straightening your back and shoulders? Keep that in mind next time you’re feeling insecure. A quick power pose (like a superhero), and you can enjoy increased confidence!
Even if you don’t feel your best, maintain posture like you do. An improvement in your posture may lead to an improvement in your mood, increased energy, and a confidence boost. If you would like tips on improving your posture, contact us and give chiropractic a try!
