CORRECTING BAD POSTURE
Whether we are standing, sitting or lying down, gravity exerts a force on our joints, ligaments and muscles. Good posture entails distributing the force of gravity through our body so no one structure is over-stressed. bad posture can result from injuries, inactivity, lack of certain vitamins and minerals, hormone levels, bad sleeping habits, genetics and repetitive stress on areas in or leading to back or congenital shaping of the spine. it can be corrected with a combination of diet and exercise. you need to be aware of your movements - the way you sit, stand and lie in bed. Using a back support cushion may help when you are sitting for long periods or while you are driving. Taking frequent breaks to move around and stretch may also help.
EXERCISES
Pilates improves mental and physical well-being, increases flexibility, endurance levels and strengthens muscles through controlled movements done as mat exercises or with equipment to tone and strengthen the body.
A person who practices yoga goes through a series of specific poses while controlling his or her breathing. There are several different positions that help improve posture.
Raise both arms straight up, alongside your ears. Bend your forearms toward shoulders to touch your shoulder blades. repeat this 10 times with both arms.
Stand straight and raise both arms out to your sides at shoulder length. Hold till you slowly count till 10. Slowly lower arms to sides, counting ten as you lower. Gently raise arms back to shoulder height, counting to ten as you raise arms. repeat this 10 times.
Stretching can greatly help you if you spend long hours behind a desk. Stretch your head in all four directions over your shoulders and gently massage your neck.
Source : TOI
