We know that we don’t always do the things that are good for us. We know that those chocolates and second glass of wine aren’t going to do our waist line any favours, but boy, does it make us feel good! We also do a lot of things that aren’t good for us without knowing.Our posture is one area where we may, through habit and repetition, make our selves feel uncomfortable without really knowing why. Help is at hand. It’s really easy to remedy this with a little mindful thought about your posture.

Better posture results in less back pain which will make you feel happier. Studies* have found that slouching and “sitting collapsed” results in more negative mood states than if you sit upright. Posture and movements reflect our moods, and in turn our mood reflects how we position our bodies. Standing tall signals confidence and says that all is well with the world. Slouching with round shoulders gives the impression of defeat, sadness and depression. So standing and sitting tall can improve your mood and make you feel happier.

10 easy tips to improve your posture.

  1. Balance your weight through the base of your big toe, base of your little toe and the centre of your heel. Now distribute your weight equally through out the triangle and between the right and left foot.
  2. Become aware of your feet making contact with the ground and how your ankles sit on top of your heel.
  3. Relax the muscles in your knees. Avoid locking the knees back or over flexing them, and notice how free they feel.
  4. Relax your buttock muscles and notice how this simple action releases your hips.
  5. Draw your awareness to your pelvic floor and gently draw it up as if you are trying avoid passing water. Notice how your lower abdominals draw in to support your spine.
  6. Relax your hands, wrists and elbows. Notice your shoulders are now free to move and your neck is more relaxed.
  7. Sit your rib cage on top of your hips by making space between the top of your hip and lower ribs at your waist line. Pay attention to your breath you will feel how the space at your waist has freed your diaphragm allowing you to breathe easier.
  8. Inhale, and as you exhale relax your shoulders away from your ears. Bring a mindful awareness to how this action has reduced tension in your shoulders and neck.
  9. Draw your chin inwards slightly to lengthen the back of your neck and at the same time allow your shoulder blades to sink downwards.
  10. Imagine a piece of string from your crown drawing you up towards the sky. Grow taller on every inhalation and enjoy this feeling of freedom in your joints.

*Vietta E. Eilson and Erik Peper. San Francisco State University 2004.