Posture Theory 3: Interaction
A third theory of posture is how we interact with the rest of the world. The greatest control we have in relation to posture is how we position ourselves. There are several positions to consider when determining good posture.
- Posture in varying movements
Since we are designed to have a natural balanced upright posture the most appropriate view for assessing posture is standing. However, the places we spend the most time should have good posture as well.
Stand comfortable. Imagine a cord is pulling you up gently from the top of your head. relax your shoulders and allow them to come down and slightly back. Your pelvis should feel like its is under you. You can do an at-home test – learn how here.
Head & Shoulders
For safety reasons it is important to keep your head no more than 2 inches from the headrest and the top of your head should not be higher than the headrest. Try to align your ear with your shoulders, avoiding forward head translation. Set the back of seat so that you can reach the wheel and still have the upper arms relaxed and not over extended.
Back and Hips
Some car seats are deep and lack support. More vehicles are fitted with inflation devices built in to create support. Still, I feel that most people do well with an added support such as a pillow that can be shifted from lower back to below mid-back. The goal is to lift the rib cage and avoid the low back from collapsing toward the seat. Learn more about Driving Posture.
Working with a desktop computer means there is a specific orientation between the monitor, keyboard, desk and chair that is different than a laptop. To sit ergonomically correct follow the “90 degree” rule. See proper-sitting-posture to learn more.
The best sleeping posture is one that puts the body in the most supportive and relaxed position. The back sleeper with the right pillow set up will give the most support and still keep you in a natural relaxed body position. Check out best sleeping posture.
Posture in Varying Movements
Complex movements are based on a sound foundation. Playing sports, working out, dancing or moving about in your daily life requires good posture. Without good posture you are more likely to get injured. An injury maybe precluded by good biomechanics.