In Case You Didn’t Think It Natural: a study of human behavior and body mechanics
Does your neck and/or back hurt? I bet this guy’s does too…
Is it any wonder why? I watched to see if it was just temporary, but while he shifted in his chair, he never actually sat up or even looked around to notice me noticing him.
It kind of hurts just to watch.
Unfortunately, he is not unique and in fact I’d say he’s “normal” by today’s standards. I know this pain firsthand as few things seem to create as much physical discomfort as being stuck at my desk behind a computer. Despite being interested since childhood, it was this pain I experienced when first entering the business world in my early 20’s that propelled me to seek help in the form of martial arts training. This training opened my eyes to the power and potential of the human body especially when in good alignment with proper technique. My work has since primarily focused on integrating these arts into the modern world and to be a part of a new normal.
This next patron is noticeably unique in her uprightedness and she noticed me noticing her right away because her head was up, eyes level, and mind alert.
She continued to hold excellent posture the entire time (I tried not to pay too close attention) and I like to imagine she was very productive in her work and that the quality was top-notch.
Now, I hear what you’re saying that it’s exhausting and you’ve tried but it’s uncomfortable and hurts and that you’re just getting older and so on. While these may all be true at this point now and it’s true that you are (and hopefully will be) getting older, it is also true that with the right guidance and practice sitting straight and reducing the strain on your back is energizing, reduces pain, makes you feel younger and live longer.
WARNING: IN CASE YOU DIDN’T THINK IT WAS NATURAL
One comment that I often hear and reject is that it’s, “not natural”. I can accept that it may not feel natural for someone used to slouching, but if you harbor any doubts here’s your proof that sitting upright is totally natural.
Sitting upright does not have to rigid, nor does it require great discipline as was evidenced by this child who maintained an erect posture throughout the meal, while being very active (and well-behaved) at the same time. She was centered over her hips with her head lifted high, effortlessly and with great joy! A treat to watch.
The goal is to reduce tension. Tension restricts the flow of Qi (Chi) leading to stagnations that are often at the source of many common ailments and chronic conditions. Our bodies will often lead our minds and chronic muscle tension further promotes frustration, irritability, and anger that we can all agree we could do without.
Good posture, mindful breath, and ease of mind are keys to reducing tension.
