How your posture affects your mood and mind

In today’s digital world most people spend hours every day looking at a phone laptop tablet or book.  Experts say that constantly bending your neck or sitting in a slouched position does more than cause neck and shoulder pain it can also affect your mental health.

According to health experts the way you sit or stand has a direct effect on your mood and emotions.

Even the way you hold your phone or book can influence how you feel.  If you are reading this while looking down at your phone experts suggest sitting up straight.

They explain that when you stay in a slouched position your brain may read it as a sign of weakness or stress.  This can increase feelings of anxiety sadness and mental tiredness.

Dr. Nitin Menon, a senior consultant in physical medicine says poor posture can make existing mental health problems worse.  Long periods of physical strain may also increase stress and anxiety.

Psychiatrist Dr. Shiv Kataria says people often curl up and become disconnected from their surroundings while using their phones. This can make them feel more isolated and lonely.

Experts also say the way you hold your phone may reflect your mental state. Holding it tightly checking it repeatedly or endlessly scrolling can increase anxiety and make it harder to relax.

Poor posture can also affect your breathing. When you hunch forward your chest becomes compressed making it harder to take deep breaths. This may leave you feeling more tense and uncomfortable.

It can also put extra pressure on your neck shoulders and back leading to pain over time.

The good news is that improving your posture may help both your body and your mind. Sitting or standing upright with your shoulders back and chest open allows you to breathe more deeply and activates the body’s natural relaxation system.

This is one reason why the idea of a “power pose” has become popular.

Experts tips for better posture

Keep your phone laptop or monitor at eye level.

Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds and gently stretch your neck and shoulders. Use a book stand or pillow to raise books instead of looking down.

Make sure your chair supports your lower back keep your feet flat on the floor and place your screen at eye level.

Strengthen your posture muscles with simple daily exercises such as chin tucks and shoulder blade squeezes.

Experts say that changing your posture is a simple step you can take right away to improve your mood and reduce stress.

While it may not be easy to avoid screens making small posture changes every day can support both your physical and mental health.