The Power of Posture: How Improving Your Posture Can Boost Your Mood and Performance

Did you know that the way you sit or stand can significantly impact your mood and cognitive performance? Recent research sheds light on the fascinating connection between posture and mental well-being, emphasizing the benefits of maintaining good posture.

Read until the end to see how you can make changes

 

A little bit of  Science Behind Posture and Mood

Studies have shown that adopting an upright posture can lead to a more positive mood. When you sit  or stand up straight, you’re not just changing your physical stance; you’re also influencing your emotional state. This concept, known as embodied cognition, suggests that our body posture can affect our mind, making us feel happier and more energetic【11†source】【12†source】.

Posture and Cognitive Performance – who doesn’t want a faster brain?

Beyond mood, posture also plays a crucial role in cognitive performance. Research indicates that maintaining an upright posture can enhance processing speed, allowing you to think and react more quickly. This means that good posture not only helps you feel better but also makes you more efficient in your tasks.

Why Good Posture Matters

1. Boosts Confidence and Reduces Stress: Sitting up straight can make you feel more confident and less stressed. An upright posture is often associated with feelings of control and power, which can help reduce anxiety and boost self-esteem.
2. Improves Memory and Learning: A positive mood, facilitated by good posture, is linked to better memory and learning abilities. When you feel good, your brain is more likely to retain and recall information effectively.
3. Enhances Overall Well-being: Good posture can lead to better physical health by reducing the risk of musculoskeletal issues (please note, while there is a link between posture and easier movement, there is no direct link between posture and pain) It promotes proper alignment and function of your body’s systems, contributing to overall well-being【13†source】.

Simple Tips for Better Posture

Please note, sometimes making simple changes to your posture isn’t actually easy. I bet, you already know that you have a habit of not sitting with less than ideal posture, but knowledge alone doesn’t create change – the intent to create change and following through does.

Before you dive into WHAT to do to upscale your posture, keep in mind that small consistent changes is key to lasting change. You don’t have to start big. Make small posture adjustments, even just for 30 seconds at a time, but make them consistently and consciously. acknowledge and thank yourself for having done it, no matter how small the change.

change is a marathon, not a sprint. With anything it starts with the first step.

So now you know how not to stress yourself about making huge changes in a short period of time, have a look at what you can do:

1. Consult your Osteopath: of course we will say that, because that’s our job, we are very good at this sort of thing.
2. Sign up to our Chinese Yoga courses: these full body exercises will give your posture and mood a boost anytime you do them. do them for 1 minute or 30, they are amazing.

If you are not ready to commit to working with someone, no problem, read on:

1. Sit Up Straight(er): Remember, small consistent changes are better than forcing big changes at once : Make a conscious effort to sit up straight with your shoulders back. – Be mindful to not force your body, a little more upright and a little more neutral shoulders than before is a good start. Use a good chair that supports your lower back to maintain this posture comfortably. Have your knees lower than your hips, it is much easier to keep a neutral spine when the pelvis doesn’t have to rotate backwards forcing you into a more slouched position
2. Take Breaks:  Switch it up , change positions often. Take regular breaks to stand, stretch, and walk around to keep your muscles engaged and relaxed (hey did you know, our Online courses include seated exercises. you can do on your desk to help you get some movement and change in there?)
3. Mind Your Alignment: Ensure that your computer screen is at eye level and your feet are flat on the ground to maintain proper alignment while working. (please note, good ergonomics, while they help keeping a better posture, recent research and statistics show no decline in back pain or desk work related strains since the wider introduction of ergonomics into the working environment –  this is for cognitive function and mood changes only –  not necessarily for pain relief)
4. A little less phone time: I know, you have heard it all before –  and it is still true –  looking DOWN at your phone too much, is no good for you, just put it down, every now and again, a little longer at a time. When you put it down, look up, stretch up, breathe deeply and thank yourself for the break. Who knows, maybe those phone breaks get just a little longer each day – see where it leads you.

Conclusion

Incorporating good posture into your daily routine can have profound effects on your mood and cognitive abilities. By simply sitting up straight(er) and making small consistent efforts, you can enhance your mental and physical health, making you feel more positive and productive. So, next time you find yourself slouching during work, remember the power of posture and sit up straight for a super focused happier you! And always remember, slouching every now and again, really isn’t the end of the world –  it may only be an issue if that is all you do with no switching it up –

Mix it up, a jack of all trades, master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of (just) one. 

 

Ready to change your posture, but don’t want to do it alone? Get help here from Kathi, Qibodywisdom’s Osteopath in Swanley/Dartford/Hextable, BR8 7PE.

Here is our Hextable/ Wilmington clinic in a nice and tranquil area, the perfect setting to destress and make some positive changes::

or book our Online courses to be guided through simple fun exercises in your own time

You still have reservations? I got your back! Get in touch and ask us anything that is concerning you here.