The human body is an amazing instrument. Our bodies contain over 600 muscles and 200 bones! On our “good days,” our bodies can run a mile, lift weights and hike up mountains. On our “bad days,” our bodies still do amazing things; like pumping 2,000 gallons of blood and breathing in 11,000 liters of air per day!

But what happens when our bodies are out of alignment? Learn about the lesser-known impacts of poor posture on the human body:

• Headaches: A hunched-over position, often known as tech-neck, increases strain on the muscles and ligaments surrounding the neck. Stack your ears over your shoulders for some relief.
• Difficulty Breathing: Having difficulty taking in a deep breath? Your posture might be the cause. A more hunched position limits movement of rib cage, impacting the lungs’ abilities expand and inhale deeply.
• Tummy Troubles: Poor posture can affect our digestive health by compressing our internal organs, reducing their efficiency to digest food and absorb nutrients.
• Decreased Sports Performance: Poor posture decreases strength in some muscles, while simultaneously increasing strain in others. Pain and weakness while lifting can occur as a result. Maintain a neutral spine for increased efficiency during your workouts.

Did you know that posture can also provide a unique insight into a person’s personality and emotions? Research has found that extroverts are more likely to stand in an “ideal” posture with the straight vertical alignment of the spine. Introverts, on the other hand, are more likely to demonstrate a more hunched position with the head forward and the low-back swayed.

This comes as no surprise, as our emotions and personal beliefs about ourselves are mirrored in our postures. When we’re happy and feel confident in our abilities, we stand tall! When we’re sad or intimidated, we curl into ourselves and hunch to metaphorically protect ourselves. So, the next time you find yourself in a hunched position, take a moment to reflect on your feelings. It might not be your muscles that are affecting your spine!

Looking to improve that posture of yours? Join us virtually on Monday, Feb. 7 from 6 to 7 p.m. for a Posture Correction and Massage Techniques class. Learn how to effectively utilize massage posture tools such as foam rollers and Theracanes. Find more information at asirecreation.org/calendar.