GOOD POSTURE KEEPS INTERNAL ORGANS STRAIGHT

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 14, Issue 53, 19 October 1949, Page 8

GOOD POSTURE KEEPS INTERNAL ORGANS STRAIGHT

It does not take much thought to realise what effect poor posture has on personal appearance. But not'so obvious are the ways it may cause fatigue, various aches and pains and improper functioning of the internal organs. People with faulty posture are much more susceptible to back injuries and other conditions than are people with good posture. Then again, poor posture usually produces a flat chest. This condition interferes with the proper functioning of the lungs, heart and circulation. It allows the abdomen to become prominent, too, and the entire system of abdominal muscles to be relaxed. This -makes the organs within the abdominal wall drop from their normal position and become crowded into the pelvic region. Freqnently chronic disorders of the digestive system result. With posture, as with so many other things, good habits are the key to success. Good posture is nothing more than a correct application of efficient body mechanics. This means that the bones and joints are kept in proper alignment with no strain on the muscles and ligaments. Enough space is then allowed for the internal organs to function to maximum capacity. Good posture should therefore be practised constantly until it becomes second nature.

Every now and then standing posture can be checked against a wall or a door. The head, shoulders, buttocks and . calves should touch it. The hollow of the back should then be only deep enough to accommodate the fingers.