fiogf49gjkf0d
New Page 1
16 Good posture for a healthy you
Most of us work at a desk or on a computer, and it’s very
easy to slip into poor sitting habits. Make sure you follow proper techniques
for sitting, standing and driving.
Benefits : Many of us have a variety of bad postural
habits. Examples include shoe heels of more than two inches, carrying a heavy
bag over one’s shoulder, cradling the phone between your shoulder and ear, and
not sitting all the way back in a chair for proper support. Says Dr. Manish
Dhawan, Consultant, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi : “A good posture can
contribute to increased energy and stamina, better breathing, proper blood
circulation, and improved overall health. It reduces stress, fatigue and general
aches and pains in overstressed joints and overused muscles.”
Sitting : Sit with your shoulders back and backbone
upright. Your legs should be at a 90 degree angle to your thighs. Says Dr.
Harshvardhan Hegde, Consultant, Artemis Health Institute, Gurgaon : “Keep your
neck, back, and heels in alignment. Avoid the urge to slouch at your desk, and
do not sit in the same position for more than 30 minutes at a time.” A small,
rolled-up towel or a lumbar roll can help maintain the normal curves of your
back.
Standing : Says Dr. Dhawan : “Keep most of your weight on
the balls of the feet and not on the heels or toes. Your arms should hang
naturally.”
Driving : Says Dr. Hegde : “Sit with the back firmly
against the seat. The seat should be at a proper distance from the pedals and
steering wheel.” The headrest should support the middle of the head to keep it
upright. Tilt the headrest forward to make sure that the head-to-headrest
distance is not more than four inches.
Precaution : If back pain lasts for more than three days,
visit an orthopaedic specialist.
(Source : Business Today, 23-3-2008)
