“Body language affects how others see us, but it may also change how we see ourselves. Social psychologist Amy Cuddy argues that “power posing” — standing in a posture of confidence, even when we don’t feel confident — can boost feelings of confidence, and might have an impact on our chances for success.” (Description taken from Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk description on YouTube)
Admittedly, standing in a meeting with your chest pushed out like a Rwandan Silver Back could be counter productive. However, imagine the difference maintaining good strong posture for 80% of your day and the impact that could have on your sense of motivation and wellbeing.
Think of the other end of the spectrum where hunched posture can create a sense of unhappiness and a closing off of ourselves to the rest of the world. If you find yourself in a bit of a funk during a day this week, try opening up the chest, taking three deep breaths, and allowing the shoulders to relax down by your side in line with your ears. See if this creates a small shift in how you may be feeling or reacting to the current situation at hand.
For those of you signed up to the “Better Posture Program” try the “Chest Awareness” exercise on Day One of Week Four with setting your focus on how you’re feeling immediately afterwards. Do you feel happier? More confident? Or do you feel a slight sense of more control?
If our goal is to live a healthier, happier and active lifestyle we have to start somewhere…why not start now?