Good Posture can Affect Circulation and Heart Health - Becel

Mom Was Right: Don't Slouch!

Have you checked your posture lately? If it's not up to par, that can put a strain on your body and contribute to headaches, fatigue, and even affect circulation and heart health.

Stand taller

Essentially, good posture is all about holding your body tall and in alignment, without leaning to one side or hunching. Avoid slouching or rolling your shoulders forward. But remember, your back has natural curves, which are part of normal alignment and a healthy posture, so don't pull your shoulders too far back or keep your back perfectly straight.

Lighten your load

Avoid chronic tilting by emptying your purse. Then just put back what you need. Next, try an across-the-chest style with a wide, padded strap. Also, to further reduce strain on your neck, use a headset rather than cradling the phone on your shoulder.

Mitigate the perils of sitting

Use a chair that provides lower back support, and sit up straight with shoulders down, so that the small of your back is touching the backrest. Keep your feet flat on the ground, and set up your keyboard so you don't need to lean forward.

Strengthen your core and back

Any exercise that strengthens your core — your abdominal muscles and the "girdle" area around the middle of your body — can help you maintain a healthy, upright posture. For example:

Plank pose. Do a traditional push up and hold in the "up" position balanced on toes — or knees, depending on your current strength — and elbows and forearms.
Crunches. Lie on a stability ball to support your lower back with legs at ninety degrees and feet flat on the floor, and slowly roll up using your abs to contract, then roll back down.
Superman. Lie on the floor face down with legs and arms extended, then raise legs, arms and your head, and hold.

Even simply engaging your abs by pulling in your abdomen when sitting, walking or standing can help strengthen your core and improve your posture.

Mom Was Right: Don't Slouch!

Mom Was Right: Don't Slouch!

Savoury Braised Green Beans

Heart Health Nutrition Check

Asian Style Pork Tenderloin