Slouching has always seemed like a genetic tendency in my mom and dad's family. I could recognize a cousin, sister, or aunt from fifty paces away by the way her shoulders hunched forward as she walked. Sitting down gave us the same profile. Rounded shoulders, head thrust forward, our backs in the familiar "C" curve. It is amazing how long we can hold that position and not develop herculean stomach and neck muscles.
Today I decided it was time to end the slouch. Aging prematurely at this point in my life doesn't seem very appealing and I'm convinced bad posture makes a person look older. Besides that, standing up straight is FREE, unlike the various line reducing creams, non surgical face lifts, liver spot concealers, and hair coloring kits that fill up the drug store aisles. Oh alright, and found in my bathroom cabinet.
Various websites tout exercise programs like Pilate's and yoga to strengthen those all important core muscles that hold us upright. Yes, I've neglected those planks and downward facing dogs for far too long. But really, as I looked in the mirror, I realized it's also a matter of taking a deep breath and just consciously standing up straighter too. With my improved posture I am capable of balancing a book or plate on my head and walking around the room. I may not be performing a circus act like the young lady above but hey, I look at least
