From the many films and even real-life cases, one of the ways that people tell they are in danger is when followed or approached by individuals with specific behavioral patterns. For instance, a person’s posture can suggest they are up to no good, and more often than not, they usually aren’t.
But how much can posture really tell about an individual? Is there such a thing as the right or wrong posture? Here are some straight posture facts to help you answer these questions.
1. Posture Can Reveal Personality and Mood
A study by Health Psychology reveals that people who slouch and slump their heads and shoulders might be exhibiting bad moods. The research in New Zealand involved 74 people who were asked to maintain a straight posture or slump. Researchers recorded the individuals’ heat rates and task completion rates.
Given that the study tested the participants’ self-esteem, stress levels, and mood as they worked, the results showed that those who assumed a slumped posture were disadvantaged. They were dull, sleepy, fearful, still, quiet, and more likely to get hostile.
On the other hand, those who assumed the upright posture exhibited confidence, reduced negative emotions, and were more social. Another research conducted by Cuddy revealed that an individual’s posture influences people’s perception and response towards them. Both studies indicated that posture can show personality and mood.
2. Ideal Posture Requires Other Movements
While it’s true that maintaining an ideal and comfortable posture comes with immense health benefits, regular movements are equally as vital. Keeping the same position for prolonged periods can also be detrimental.
Ideally, the human spine is very flexible, capable of adapting to most situations without much stiffness or pain. Therefore, regular movements are vital to avoid causing stress to particular organs.
3. Several Factors Can Affect Posture
Depending on an individual’s body composition, it’s possible to assume an unfavorable posture. In some cases, unavoidable circumstances can cause this. Some of the contributing factors for poor posture include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Fatigue
- Accidents and injuries
- Weak muscles
- Poor biomechanics
- Carry more than your body weight
- Consistently stressing one side of the body. For example, carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder
- Incorrectly set up workstations
- Genetic factors
- Scoliosis
4. Good Posture Has Immense Benefits
Finding a posture that suits you has immense benefits, ranging from increased productivity to overall happiness and improved health. Examples include the following:
- Better sleep
- Improved productivity
- Boosted confidence
- Better mood and social behavior
5. There Is No “One Fits All” Posture
People are different, and for that, several posture variations are available. For instance, some individuals have kyphosis characterized by excessive thoracic region curves. Then there are those with lordosis; their lower back curves excessively.
The third type is those with flat backs; their spines don’t curve much. Finally, there are people with swaying backs. These ones have more pushed-forward pelvises superseding their center of gravity, so their upper torsos lean back to compensate.
With all these in mind, having a “one fits all” correct posture is almost impossible. The fact that people have different joint patterns and stiffness of the muscles makes it more challenging.
6. Having a Straight Back Is Not Necessarily the Right Posture
The system has created a perception that implies the correct posture is having a straight back. Many believe it’s standing taller than everybody, with shoulders pulled back. However, if you look at or try it, you will realize this is a challenging position to maintain. It requires more mental awareness and energy.
While this might come naturally for some people, such as security officers, the correct posture is where the spine is most comfortable and can work optimally. So, if your neck slightly curves backwards, your thorax slightly forward, and your thorax comfortably backwards, you have attained an ideal posture.
Averagely, most humans assume an elongated S-like shape. Remember, the goal is to feel comfortable while the internal organs work optimally.
