Good Posture

Caroline Graham Swann

Darlings, I must share with you the importance of correct posture for health reasons and fashion, because clothes, no mater the cost or designer, can’t look good without graceful carriage.  As simply as one wants to keep up with the best skin care, one should be constantly aware of the beauty of good posture.

It is natural as one passes the fifty year mark to fall prey to becoming a victim of bones that are not as strong as they were in the spring of life.  Yes, the seasons of life do bring surprising changes in one’s body. Being one to search for the “Fountain of Youth,” I consulted with a chiropractor to research how to maintain the amazing grace of excellent carriage.

He explained to always keep in mind the open chest theory, meaning do not fold into the front of the body with the shoulders.  Always keep this in mind and follow a number of simple steps to increase good posture.

I will not overload you with the whole regiment of exercises, but I will describe the elementary road to good posture as I was instructed:  stand straight and reach your arms to the ceiling, keeping your hands over your head and your thumbs turned toward the back. Stretch in this position.  Now, keep your thumbs turned back and make your arms form a “y” behind you. Hold this position to the count of 30,  Next, open your arms wide and stretch out while counting to 30. Finally, pull your arms to your sides and press down, while still keeping your thumbs turned back. Repeat this series of exercises 5 times daily. 

It is amazing how the thought of “open chest” and these exercises give one the feeling of being straighter and more graceful!  Just make a pledge to do this everyday and swish through the room with an air of confidence and grace.