Good Sitting Posture For A Vibrant, Pain-Free Back

Although much attention is given to our posture while standing, like many years of mom telling us to stand up straight or to stop slouching, it is also incredibly important to maintain good posture while sitting down in a chair. In fact, since most of us spend a lot of our time sitting at work, while commuting, eating, relaxing, or watching television, our posture can be even more important while seated in a chair.

The spine consists of an outward curve in the upper back and an inward arch further down. If either is not aligned properly, and is not kept in check via correct resting posture, then numerous pains can develop. Also, since this natural support is crucial to efficient bodily function, we will fatigue more easily if both arches are not receiving constant support from the many muscles of the back and spine.

There are several important aspects of good sitting posture of which it is essential to be aware. Each re-enforces the other such that neglecting any one will make your entire effort less effective.

First, you should be seated with your head lifted upright and your neck relaxed, not craning or straining at all. Most people unconsciously sit with their heads tilted forward and down while sitting at a desk, especially while working at their computer. Hunching forward puts undo strain on all the muscles in the back causing them to become weaker over time.

It is also important to keep the shoulders relaxed and lowered away from the ears. With the shoulders lowered, the spine should be as vertically aligned as possible. Much of your body’s support is derived from this vertical alignment. Deviating in any direction places extra strain on the muscles of the back and spine.

While seated, also keep the pelvis tilted forward to avoid putting any weight on the sensitive tailbone area. Tilting the pelvis helps you sit on your leg bones rather than the tailbone and always remember to take frequent breaks, giving yourself the time to stand and stretch your muscles and increase the flow of blood.

If at all possible, try tilting the seat of your chair forward. Not only will this help encourage a forward pelvic tilt, but it will also help correctly align the spine and re-enforce its natural, supportive curves.

The lower abdomen should be drawn in slightly which gives structural support and also allows for a natural curve in the lumbar spine to help support your weight better.

These practices may feel tiring or unnatural, especially at first. If this is true for you, a postural exercise routine may help by exercising specific muscle groups in ways that will help them provide the best support for an efficient posture. Such programs are an excellent investment for anyone who takes their health seriously.

Anyone can improve posture.  Make it a point to become aware of your own specific habits and how your back and neck are aligned while seated in a chair. Assess all of your work areas, how you sit while “comfortable” at home, and consciously begin to train your body to adapt to the best sitting posture, allowing you to feel better all over.