Acquire: Fight the Slump

We spend a great deal of time sitting down. That, in and of itself, is less than ideal for health. Still, it is the postural slump that concerns me this morning. The ways in which we allow our torsos to slump and compact causing compression in the spine and compromised breathing.

In the 90s (the 1990s, I’m not that old), there was a push towards ergonomic office seating to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. Everyone was thinking about how to better configure their work environments. In particular, the relationship between our keyboards and the work surface. I’d love to see a new movement towards making this a priority for all of the new and different ways in which we work.

Can we maintain a healthful posture as we use devices? With a screen positioned at eye level, and seating that supports muscular involvement. Can we work with arms that are well-positioned for typing or swiping but also that allow for dynamic shifting in our pelvis? Perhaps, I am asking for too much but why shouldn’t we prioritize health in the way we work?

These compromises in alignment have real consequences as we try to speak with impact. We are our bodies after all. So, what can you do to improve the way you work? While you are thinking about it, stand for a bit. It helps.

Gina Razón is the Founder and CEO at GROW Voice LLC, a full-service verbal communication studio in Boston’s Back Bay.  She has over two decades of experience as a teacher of voice and speech, is a communication and change facilitator, and is a voraciously curious voice user.  Gina has worked professionally as a classical singer for over a decade and more recently as a professional public speaker.  For more information on the studio or to book Gina visit www.growvoice.com.