Posture, posture, posture! It’s a word we hear all the time if we find ourselves working behind a computer screen at a desk for a living. It’s a periodic reminder of the importance of our physical health.
Unfortunately, our bodies were not designed for sitting continuous with perfect posture for 8-10 hours a day or longer. It’s natural and normal to start to slouch and “get comfortable.” That’s because maintaining an upright posture is WORK. Work means we are using our muscles, exerting energy and burning calories. The nifty thing about the human body is it will do whatever it can to preserve energy, and this is where slouching comes into play.
So, instead of giving up on your posture or feeling uncomfortable all day trying to be perfectly aligned, give yourself hourly breaks. Within these short breaks, try implementing these 3 stretches, that can be done in your chair or at your desk, to help reset your posture to a more vertical and natural position.
#1 - Seated, 90/90 Stretch
40 seconds hold each side; perform 1-3 times per side
#2 - Seated, Bent Over Chest Stretch
10 repetitions each side; perform 1-3 times per side
#3 - Seated, Bent Over Upper Back Stretch
10 repetitions each side; perform 1-3 times per side
If you’re looking for more ways to reset your posture while you work, please check out Texins’ virtual group exercise schedule and join us for a live stretch break via Webex.