Taking care of your spinal health should be one of your top priorities. It's literally the backbone to a good life. 4 million Australians experience back pain at some point in their life. It's essential to recognise that your daily habits affect your spinal health. Here are a few tips/activities that will help you have a healthier spine 365 days a year.
Correct posture
Maintaining good posture is imperative for a healthy spine. If you are sitting, you should make sure that you are sitting against the back of your chair with your feet flat on the floor or a footrest. Make sure your head, shoulders and hips in line on to of one another. If you are standing, make sure you have your shoulders pulled back with your head, shoulders, hips, and feet in line on top of each other. Avoid positioning weight unevenly.
Take a break from technology
Technology forms an integral part of our daily lives, but it's important to take a break from it. The prolonged periods of looking down that occur from frequent use of technology can put undue strain on your neck. Try taking a break from using technology after work and on weekends.
In addition to this, when using smaller technology items like phones or tablets bring them to eye level and keep your chin parallel to the floor. This will help reduce neck strain and upper back tightness.
Take a walk
Walking is not only good for your spine by contributing to a naturally upright posture, but it also helps improve circulation and mobility. Setting a simple goal like 10,000 steps or a 30-minute walk every day can help improve your spinal health.
Stretch everyday
Stretching is also a great way to keep up your spinal health. It's easy to start. Even something as simple as the 3-minute stretching program offered by the Straighten Up app will help with your spine.