The common office posture is seated and huddled, shoulders tense, chest collapsed, spine hunched over a computer. Chest openers help us reverse that posture. This collapsed posture is not only bad for our spine and surrounding musculature, but also for our attention and focus, our breathing and our internal organs. Sit up tall and relaxed on the edge of your chair. Bring your arms up, so they are straight out from your body (while keeping the shoulders and neck relaxed); now, bend your elbows so your fingertips touch while keeping the arms parallel with the floor. As you inhale, gently bring your elbows back and think of squeezing your shoulder blades together; as you exhale, release your arms back to the start position, fingertips touching. Do this 6 times.
Try to stretch, move, get up out of your chair every 20 minutes, even if just for a minute or two. If you must sit for long periods, practice proper sitting that enables a tall spine and balance in the joints. Feet should be under the knees, hips and knees should be level with each other, with a neutral spine and relaxed shoulders and the head able to balance neutrally, eyes gazing forward. Adjust your chair and computer/keyboard to help you meet these goals.
Want to learn more? Our Place Studio offers yoga, pilates and tai chi classes that can help you not only learn how to identify your postural imbalances and release chronic tension, but also help you strengthen and support your body and cultivate mindfulness and relaxed breathing, improving your overall health and sense of wellbeing. Classes are open to the public, and your first one is always free! Want to schedule a massage or training session with Monica? You can do that, too! Check out opcovington.com for a full schedule of classes or call 985-875-1182.
