5 Benefits of Good Posture

Good posture has many health benefits. Good posture will:

1. strengthen your core muscles: a strong core is important in supporting your back. Good posture will engage more of the muscles in your back and abdomen, causing them to strengthen over time.
2. make you look smarter and thinner: good posture is associated with confidence, intelligence and attractiveness. Also, standing tall will stretch out your abdomen, rather than squishing it down and out, so you will look instantly thinner.
3. facilitate breathing: A slumped forward posture will compress the lungs, preventing you from taking deep breaths. This ultimately decreases your body's ability to supply oxygen to your cells and therefore decreases your energy levels and ability to carry out physical activities. Your brain also requires a lot of oxygen to function optimally, so full deep breaths will improve your concentration levels and problem-solving skills.
4. prevent ingrown toe nails: Poor posture can force pressure onto the corner of a toe nail, causing the nail to curve down into the skin. Ingrown toenails are not only painful, but they can also lead to infection.
5. correct jaw alignment: In order to maintain healthy teeth, as well as reduce headaches and pain associated with clenched teeth, your jaw needs to be in alignment. Good posture will allow your jaw to fall into a healthy position. Remember, the only time your top and bottom teeth should touch is when you are chewing.