Look at people's posture as you are standing in the checkout line, or even when you are talking to someone you know and love.  And if you notice that they have good posture... give them a compliment and tell them so! I guarantee it will brighten their day!

Do you know what response I almost always get when I say "My, you have such good posture!"  The reply is usually ... "Thanks, I work at it!"

Yes, that is right.  It takes mental and physical work to hold our bodies in alignment. I am not referring to the kind of intense effort of a soldier at attention, but rather the effort of awareness.  Are the ears in line with the shoulders? Are the shoulders relaxed and aligned above the hips and not leaning forward? Does the back feel overly-arched or overy-rounded and tucked backward? And what about the feet... are they pigeon-toed or duck feet?

Check out Lucy and Lou! You would think they might have some physical issues that are keeping them from a straight and strong posture... but really it is just awareness (and a few cues) to help their bodies find a healthy and comfortable position.  And don't they both look taller?

That is why Yoga is so good for us because the poses help to align our spine so that our entire body can gracefully fall into place. I promise, the more you practice Yoga, the better your posture will be!

And the fringe benefit of good posture is .... Less Pain!  See you at the grocery store!