It's one of the finest engineering feats on the planet, and without it, we'd fall over like saplings in a high wind. And mostly, we ignore this miracle.
What is Posture?
Posture is what keeps us upright and it's also what makes one leg go in front of the other when we walk, instead of getting tangled up. With the help of movement and muscle tone, posture keeps all the bones, muscles, ligaments and joints in proper alignment. It's also movement that "oils" our joints and keeps them supple. Everything gets its fair share of wear and tear, without anything taking too much strain, and ultimately allows us to move with grace and fluidity.
The "backbone" of posture is the spine, and it's important for its two functions:
- It gives flexibility that allows the body to move in almost every direction
- It carries the crucial nerve supply from the brain that allows the body to function
How Does Posture Work?
The most complicated element of posture is our vertebrae – the cleverly stacked structure with built-in curves, that allows for the complex movements the body makes. Rather like the intricate metalwork on the Eiffel tower, we have lots of tiny muscles to keep it all together and hold us upright. But, because the muscles are living structures, and designed to allow movement, they need to be kept in good working condition. If they lose their flex, we lose our possibility of movement.
The vital function of the vertebral column though, is to take the nerve supply from the brain to every part of the body. Without that, nothing functions at all. Information goes from the outreaches of the body to the brain and back again. It's all unconscious, and absolutely extraordinary. When we step on a hot rock at the beach, the brain knows to lift the foot off, quick! It also alerts us to potential injury when it sends a muscle into spasm.
How To Improve Posture
You are probably beginning to see that the proper working of the body is absolutely dependent on movement. It keeps the muscles toned and working well, and it keeps the brain up-to-date with what's happening throughout the body.
Good posture needs:
- Toned strong muscles throughout the body for support
- Varied movements of every part of the body for good nerve conduction
- Good balance and flexibility
Yoga
Yoga done every day will do the trick; it is the single most effective method of keeping the body in perfect working condition. It stretches and strengthens the whole body, as well as keeping the mind in good nick. Why do anything else?
But since we mostly only manage it once a week, then something more is needed. Sitting, standing and walking consciously are important so that we stay in good alignment. If we slump in our seats, the spine loses its curves, and can't stay stacked properly. Internal organs become compressed, and they don't get an adequate blood and nerve supply. Bowel problems may ensue.
At the least, we need regular movement. If you sit all day, then find reasons to get up and move vigorously, often. Strolling to the coffee machine won't do it. Take the stairs, make a point of going out at lunchtime and walking, even in the rain (you won't shrink!) Better yet, go to the gym and have some serious exercise. Even a short session will have fantastic results.
Movement for our bodies is like oil for a car; you wouldn't dream of driving your car without making sure it had the oil that it needs. Give your body the movement it craves, and it will reward you with a life-time of worry-free service.
Find a professional yoga therapist to help you improve your posture.
Originally published on Oct 17, 2011
