The Correct Posture: Standing Correctly

Standing correctly is very important. Not only does a right posture help relieve stress from pain, recent research also show that standing up a great part of the day is one of the best things you can do for your health.

So adapting a habit of correct standing will pay off in the long run ;)

5 Basic Things

There are basically 5 things to remember when standing:

• Feet apart
• Knees slightly bend
• Straight back
• Shoulders down
• Don't stand on your heels

Feet Apart

For men especially this is important. The army-way with heels together is not how the hip and knees are designed. Standing correctly requires 2-4 inches of space between the feet - and 3-6 inches for women. The problem is not as big for women because the female hips are different and allows more flexibility. However, anybody will benefit from

Knees Bend

Not much, just enough to prevent overstretching of the knees. Multi jointed people should be particularly aware of this problem. So bend your knees just slightly. Not so much that you are actually squatting - just so stress on your knees is reduced.

Keep a Straight Back

This is very important. Straighten your back both when stranding and sitting. If you get tired of standing with a straight back; lean against a wall with you back against it: This will still keep you back straight while relieving the stress on it. A straight back is key to standing correctly and will also reduce back - and neck pain.

Loosen Up Your Shoulders

You can almost say "Drop your shoulders!" to anyone and their shoulders will fall down a bit. If your shoulders are tense it will almost certainly cause neck pain or even migraines in the long run. So keep your shoulders relaxed. It you find it difficult to keep them down, maybe your table, sitting or working position is wrong.

Try keeping your hands together on your back. It will help you straighten your back and in the mean time force your shoulders to stay down and relaxed.

Do Not Stand On Your Heels

If you stand on your heels - meaning; having your weight mostly on the back of your feet - it may cause pain, fatigue and even dizziness or fainting. So stand more on the front part of your feet at least most of the time. This can be tough on your leg muscles but that is a good thing, right? - If it gets too much, switch between standing positions now and then.

Learn more about relieving stress by standing correctly and other techniques at 2relievestress.com.