Stress, Posture and Pain

 

Help with Stress: Watch Your Posture



 

We talk a lot about posture and health.  Here is an interesting article from Dynamic Chiropractic that shows how stress and posture are related. -Dr Patrick

According to a recent study, stress might not only cause poor posture; the opposite might actually be the case. The study compared upright, seated posture to slumped seated posture to evaluate how different postures affected emotions / mood, particularly in the face of stress. Results showed that "upright participants reported higher self-esteem, more arousal, better mood, and lower fear, compared to slumped participants."

The researchers' concluding remarks were even more revealing: "Adopting an upright seated posture in the face of stress can maintain self-esteem, reduce negative mood, and increase positive mood compared to a slumped posture. Furthermore, sitting upright increases rate of speech and reduces self-focus. Sitting upright may be a simple behavioral strategy to help build resilience to stress."

The take-home message: Sit up straight and reduce your stress! By the way, proper posture is also a great way to prevent spine-related aches and pains. Talk to your chiropractor for more information.

Written by; DC editorial staff