As our bodies age and shrink due to the breakdown and thinning of our vertebrae and disks, it is not uncommon to find elderly individuals with poor posture and back pain. Moreover, as society increasingly continues to force people into sedentary positions behind screens, actively working to maintain a good posture has become more important than ever for us.
What Is Considered a Good Posture?
Putting in the effort to maintain a good posture throughout your life has huge payoffs. Your body will work the way it is supposed to at its optimal level, in turn also keeping your muscles balanced and working together to prevent injuries. But what does a good posture really mean? Good posture is also known as a neutral spine, where the surrounding muscles are balanced and equally support your body. Here’s a quick posture check-in for you:
While sitting, your back should be mostly straight. Rest both feet flat on the floor, spreading your weight evenly on both hips. Ensure that your ears are lined up with your collarbones and that your shoulders are relaxed. While standing, make sure you are not locking or hyperextending your knee joints so that there is a slight knee bend.
Benefits of Maintaining a Good Posture
Keeping your back and spine healthy and strong can improve your life in the following ways:
- Maintain better balance which in turn reduces the risk of debilitating falls that are common during old age which can lead to broken bones and other serious injuries.
- Improve blood flow and help with digestive issues. By not slouching, you prevent your internal organs from being compressed and allow them to function optimally.
- Reduce the risk of heart attacks and stroke by allowing proper blood flow.
- Enhance cognitive functioning. An aligned spine can boost communication between one’s neurotransmitters and the brain.
- Prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. AS your back muscles and ligaments have to work overtime when you have poor posture, these overworked muscles can lead to degeneration in the spine.
- Lift spirits and decrease feelings of depression through better blood circulation and oxygenation throughout your body, leading to improved mood and perception.
How to Maintain a Good Posture Through Exercise
Mainly, you should avoid a sedentary lifestyle or simply make time to get active every so often to allow your muscles to stretch out and stay limber. Aging individuals must work on improving their posture as soon as possible, and here are a few ways you can do that:
- Focus on building muscle along your neck flexors, back extensors, pelvic muscles, and side muscles.
- Strengthen your core and improve your overall athleticism and flexibility through exercises like Pilates, yoga, and tai chi.
- Stretch out your muscles and stay limber by simply getting up and taking walks.
Why Choose Aston Gardens At Sun City Center?
Our residents are offered a wide array of life enrichment programs and activities designed to help them maintain social, physical, intellectual, and spiritual wellness. At Aston Gardens At Sun City Center, individuals from all walks of life are welcomed to our warm and supportive community.
If you have any inquiries about living in Aston Gardens At Sun City Center, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
