Preksha Dhyana Human Body Part 2

Author(s): Jethalal S Zaveri
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Page 97

of gravity is shifted, the object has to topple over. Wearing high heels shifts the centre of gravity forward and there is a tendency to lean backward with the upper part of the trunk producing a deepening of the spinal curvature as the postural muscles compensate.
In 'correct standing position, the head is held high and balanced easily on the neck, the abdomen is held in and the chest is allowed to expand freely. The shoulders should not sag forward and the arms hang freely. Remember that good posture is not a stiff military 'standing to attention' but a relaxed position. Correct sitting position is similar, with the spinal cord and neck in a straight line, not stiff but relaxed. Deviations may result in backaches and even deformities.
Lying down horizontally is the posture usually assumed for resting and sleeping, but too much bed-rest has its drawbacks.
"The modern man and woman leads a soft life," says Dr. R.H. Dastur; "cars are well cushioned for comfort. In the office we sit or slump on soft cushioned chairs. Higher the status, softer is the cushioning. At home we lounge on overstuffed sofas or soft rubber cushions. And the worst culprits are the ultra soft mattresses temptingly inviting us to sink into slumber all night and suffer backache all day. Faulty postures further strain the overtired muscles and produce backache.
"Spondylogenis backaches are the most frequent and are caused by pain arising from the spinal column, discs ligaments, back mucules and joints. In most of the cases there is nothing wrong with their spine or discs. The back-aches are due to sprains or strain of muscles, tendons or ligaments resulting from faulty posture, slouching for hours at the desk or standing for hours at parties. Low backache is a protest from these tensed muscles against ill-treatment."
1. Times of India, Sunday Review, May 23, 1982.
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