Meaning of correct posture

Correct posture means the balancing of body in accurate and proper manner while sitting, standing, reading, writing etc. In a proper posture, the whole body weight falls on both feet without any effort and the entire body appears to be in a vertical line.

Good posture makes it possible for the ligaments and muscles to maintain positions for the body movements. The efficiency of movements depends upon a balance of various forces acting on the body. When one keeps a natural balance during activities i.e. walking, sitting, standing, playing or working can be called to have good posture.

Body positions change from time to time, when we stand, sit, walk etc. We perform standing position everyday and we have never paid attention to our posture as to how we stand. Most of the people don't even know that their standing position effects the back and neck. The problems are due to wrong posture while standing.

1. Stand tall.
2. When standing in front of a table, the table height should be high enough to permit working without bending over.
3. For efficient standing the body segments should be as close as possible to a vertical line through the center of the body.
4. Try to maintain straight spine position rather bending to the side.
5. Avoid bending forward or side ways.
6. Chin should be up and the head centered over the Shoulders.
7. The knees should be little bend or almost straight.
8. The body weight should be evenly balanced over both legs and feet.
9. The hips should be tucked in.
10. The stomach should be flat and not bulging out.

Mainly there are two styles for standing.

1. Standing for short duration.
2. Standing for long duration.

For short time the best way of standing is to hold the body in a way with proper alignment of its body parts i.e. the head in-between the two Shoulders, chin dawn in, the chest thrown forward with shoulders in level, back erect with natural curves and body weight equally balance over both the legs and feet. Feet slightly apart in a parallel line.

For long time standing position the best way is to put one foot ahead of the other, in a balancing position or one leg can be shifted to the left side or right side and main body weight remains on one leg and other leg act as a balancing leg. The weight is transferred giving rest to both the legs turn-by-turn alternately.