Did you know that poor posture can have serious consequences for your health? Neglecting to stand up straight can increase your risk of falling, especially as you age. Physiotherapist’s specialising in the challenges of ageing, explain that hunched over posture throws off your balance and affects your centre of gravity, making you more prone to injuries.

But that's not all. Slouched posture can also cause fatigue by restricting your rib cage and compressing your diaphragm, reducing lung capacity and leading to shallow breathing. This can leave you feeling tired and lacking energy, affecting your overall productivity. Additionally, poor sitting posture, such as slouching in your chair, can lead to neck, shoulder, back pain, and even eyestrain. Some people even experience headaches due to poor posture.

Let's not forget about the impact of technology on our posture. Gazing down at your phone for hours on end can put stress on your neck, resulting in the infamous ‘iPosture’.

But here's the good news: recent research has shown that good posture not only helps alleviate physical pain and fatigue but also has mental health and brain benefits. Correct posture can reduce stress, increase positive mood and self-esteem. In fact, a study found that adopting an upright seated posture in the face of stress can maintain self-esteem, reduce negative mood, and increase positive mood compared to a slumped posture.

Furthermore, good posture can increase confidence and assertiveness. Several studies have indicated that maintaining an upright posture can boost confidence and promote respect from others, regardless of your position in an organisational hierarchy. It may even improve your chances of success in a job search.

Additionally, good posture can help you perform better under pressure. A study involving college students found that those who sat upright reported finding it easier to do maths problems. This suggests that using an empowered position can enhance focus and performance in various situations.

So, how can you develop the habit of good posture? Here are some tips:

• Keep your chin parallel to the floor.
• Keep your shoulders back and down.
• Activate your abdominal muscles to pull up from your waist.
• Keep hips and knees even, with knees pointing straight ahead.
• Distribute body weight evenly on both feet.
• Aim for a neutral spine (no arching).

To develop a good-posture habit, it's important to be conscious of your posture throughout the day. Notice when you're slouching and correct yourself. Use your abdominal muscles to pull yourself upright, and consider doing exercises that strengthen your leg and core muscles. Taking breaks to move around and creating a posture-friendly office environment can also make a difference.

Remember our bodies are built to move, so being in any one position for too long of the day can cause muscle imbalances, therefore discomfort, so remember to keep the body moving throughout the day! By practicing good posture, you can reverse some of the effects of ageing, improve your breathing, and protect your spine, shoulders, and neck.