Why Good Posture is Important for Physical Health in Children
Good posture is important for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it helps to prevent pain and discomfort in the body. When we slouch, we put unnecessary strain on our muscles and joints. Over time, this can lead to chronic pain. By maintaining good posture, we can reduce the risk of these problems and keep our bodies feeling comfortable and healthy. When you align your spine correctly, you put less stress on your joints, bones and ligaments holding the spinal joints together and allows your muscles to work more efficiently.
In addition to preventing pain, good posture also helps to support proper breathing and digestion. When we sit or stand up straight, we allow our lungs and diaphragm to expand fully, which allows for deeper breathing. Good posture can also help to reduce pressure on the digestive system, which can improve digestion and reduce symptoms such as bloating and constipation.
Why Good Posture is Important for Mental Health in Children
In addition to its physical benefits, good posture can also have a positive impact on our mental health. When we stand or sit up straight, we tend to feel more confident and self-assured. This can help to improve our mood and reduce feelings of anxiety or depression. In contrast, slouching can exacerbate these feelings.
A number of studies have found a link between posture and mental health. For example, one study published in the journal Health Psychology found that sitting up straight can help to boost self-esteem and reduce symptoms of depression. Another study, published in the Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, found that adopting a “power pose” (i.e. standing with your feet apart and your hands on your hips) can help to increase feelings of confidence and reduce stress.
How to Achieve Good Posture in Children
So, how can parents and caregivers help children achieve good posture? There are a number of strategies that can be effective, including:
Providing ergonomic furniture: Furniture that is designed to promote good posture, such as adjustable chairs and desks, can be helpful in ensuring that children are comfortable and well-supported as they work and play. Doctor founded brand, Eyas, have developed an ergonomic pram cushion – The Wedge that helps prevent bad posture and provide the correct pram seating position for optimal spinal development. The Wedge has been paediatrican endorsed for these medical effects. Read more about the science behind it here.
