How to Correct a Slouch

If your mother constantly told you to "stop slouching!" she may have been right to scold. A person who slouches droops his head and shoulders forward, bending slightly. Slouching not only looks bad, but can also cause physical ailments like aches and pains, headaches, stiffness, poor mobility and even difficulty breathing. Correcting a slouch can improve your posture and make you look and feel better.

Instructions

• 1

  While standing, picture a pulley coming out of your head, pulling you upwards from your crown. You will feel your spine stretch out.

• 2

  Drop your shoulders, pushing your shoulder blades slightly back and towards each other. Your chest and rib cage will automatically open up; you may find it easier to breathe in this position.

• 3

  Place your hands under your backside while sitting; you will feel your "sitting bones" pushing into your hands. If you are properly centered, these bones will be resting in the middle of your hands -- not off of your hands, and not too far forward.

• 4

  Walk around for five minutes after sitting behind a computer for an hour. Even if you have to stroll around your office or up and down the hallway, get up and move around a bit. Remain mindful of your posture while on this break.

• 5

  Rotate your neck and shoulders regularly. Bring one ear toward your shoulder as your arms hang down loosely. Repeat on the other side, and hold each position for approximately 20 seconds.