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Posture Correction

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Posture Correction

I am very interested in posture correction and how it can help with health problems such as back pain and stress.

This subject took great relevance for me when I was studying at university. I started to suffer very bad neck pains that were stopping me from doing my work. I found that this problem was caused by sitting at a computer terminal with a bad posture for over 10 hours a day.

I took some lessons in the Alexander Technique, which is more than just a posture correction method, but in layman's terms that's how I describe it.

After a few lessons my neck was much better, so I made this lens in order to share this discovery for the benefit of others who have similar postural problems and those who wish for a perfect posture.

What is Posture Correction?

I think that most people would agree 'posture correction' involves:-

1. Not hunching, but straightening your back
2. Not rounding your shoulders, but pulling them back

The reason I say this is because people tend to do both of these things automatically when I mention "posture correction".

However, both of those actions actually increase the amount of tension a person is holding. So in fact, most peoples attempts to have a better posture just makes them more tense.

Over time, it is very common for an individual to become unaware as to how much excess tension they are holding due to a few reasons such as stress, fear, and a misunderstanding of what good posture is.

Back pain is one of the most common associated problems, but there are many other ailments and diseases that can also come about from being too tense.

How Do I Obtain a Perfect Posture?

If you asked an Alexander Technique Teacher this question they would probably tell you that it is a not case of obtaining but of letting go. Once you let go of any excess tension in your body, your posture will improve automatically without you having to do anything.

There seems to be a common misconception that being reminded to sit up straight will improve posture. You can even buy gadgets that let off a beep when you slouch at your desk.

At schools, teachers often tell children to sit up straight. I even remember that my art teacher nicknamed me 'slouch' to teach me not to hunch my back.

However, correcting posture is not possible with these sorts of reminders. It anything it will make matters worse, because for many the act of sitting up straight actually increases the amount of tension in the body.

How Can The Alexander Technique Improve Posture?

The Alexander Technique is a tool that enables a person to be aware of their thoughts and the way that they use their body.

By gaining conscious thought of those two things it is possible for a person to choose how we use our mind and body in our daily lives. Instead of just reacting habitually they can choose a new direction.

With this freedom of choice, it is possible to regain your natural poise and enjoy pain free living.