Breathwork and Posture
GOOD POSTURE IS IMPORTANT!
BUT WHAT IS “GOOD” POSTURE?
In our modern world, it's easy to find ourselves sitting for extended periods — at a desk, on the couch, looking down at our phones. These positions aren't necessarily wrong, but too much for too long can add up. A general lack of movement can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and increased stress, which leads to inefficient breathing!
In this week's blog, I dive into the world of posture and provide two simple yet powerful solutions! So take a deep breath in, hold, let it go… and let's explore some modern posture magic!
#1) A VARIETY OF POSTURE IS THE BEST POSTURE
A patient of mine once said, "Variety is the spice of life". This stuck with me as a great reminder that the best posture is a variety of postures. Our bodies were made to move, groove, shift, adjust, fidget, settle in, sit still, sit strong, relax, let go.
How frequently do you find yourself sitting at your computer for too long, and your body can't help but start to shift around? I'm sure it's quite often — because you're human! We are movement beings! So listen to your body when it speaks up. When you get a signal that it's time to move, then make sure you double down and shift, squirm, shake, and stand up. Add some variety to your life.
The term 'fidget' has always held a negative connotation for me. " Sit down and be still!" Sound familiar? Well, I say it's well past time to break this chastized habit and make your fidgeting functional!
When you accept fidgeting as a natural part of the human system and turn any signal to move as an invitation to make it functional, your mind and body will thank you.
#2 - BREATHE BIGGER, BREATHE BETTER!
The bigger you breathe, the better your posture! It makes too much sense. You’re breathing all day, everyday. The muscles responsible for respiration also hold a secondary role of core and postural stability. This is why I place so much emphasis on posture during my breathwork coaching sessions.
To make this process easy to learn and follow, I’ve created the online course, Breathe Bigger Breathe Better, as a way to support physical health and posture through a variety of breathing exercises. More info below!
For most effective practice, combine the two tips above! Bring to mind the importance of moving your body and finding a variety of movement. Increase your attention and awareness to your breath. Breathe bigger, deeper, and better. Your mind, body, and psyche will thank you.
TRUE SELF HEALTH POSTURE POSTS
Add Kneeling to Your Workday
While standing desks are a great option, they aren’t always accessible during the workday.
That’s why I recommend adding tall kneeling as a simple, effective ergonomic change.
Listen to your body & your posture will improve
Within various postures is an opportunity for body awareness — Listen to your body to find the best adjustments.
Functional Fidgeting / Tips to Improve Sitting Posture
The number one rule in "good" posture? There is no such thing as a "bad" posture — except the one that you are in for way too long.