We should all take care to maintain good posture because research has shown that it improves breathing, reduces stress, balances hormones, increases mental clarity, and successfully aids digestion.
On the other side, poor body alignment increases the risk of chest tightness, poor blood flow, and back pain.
To relieve the discomfort and stress in your back, neck, and shoulders, you should take all reasonable steps to address the situation. Fortunately, you can do this by simply using the same muscles that you would use to stand naturally.
The locust pose, or shalabhasana in yoga, is an exercise that strengthens the muscles and provides amazing effects. Yet, if you suffer from back pain, consult your doctor before this or any other similar exercise.
This is how to perform it:
In a lying position, with the face downwards, and the forehead touching the floor, stretch both legs and spread them hip-width apart.
The weight of the body should be divided equally on the tops of your feet. Then, raise the upper body as high as possible, keeping the head up. Inhale and elevate the head, and the lift the hands as you exhale. The hands should be near the body, with the palms faced downwards.
Next, just raise the legs using the thigh muscles, and concentrate the weight on the lower ribs, pelvis, and abdomen. Hold for 10 to 60 seconds, and do 5-10 repetitions.
This exercise will improve your body posture, and strengthen the muscles of the legs, torso, and back. The following video gives a detailed explanation of the exercise:
