Put your back into it!

Good posture not only improves your health, but your overall appearance,too. Once you improve and maintain your posture while sitting, standing, and lying down you will not go back to slouching. There is that big of a difference in your silhouette. Here's how to get started...

First, choose a chair with firm cushions and a high back. Sit with your hips as far against the back of the chair as you can, and with your knees level with your hips or just a little lower. If needed put a round cushion, towel, or sweater between the small of your back and the chair for extra support.

Then make sure to stand with your knees slightly bent and your shoulders relaxed. Line up your ears, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. For proper posture they have to be in a straight line while standing. This might be a hard one to do all the time, but most of the time is better that not at all.

Finally, sleep on a firm mattress that provides back support. Try to lay on your back with your legs straight or with a pillow under your knees. If you prefer to sleep on your side, keep your legs bent, with the top leg straighter than the bottom one. Use a pillow between your legs to help. Sweet dreams.