As a physiotherapist I was trained to read posture. Now as a professor I teach the same to my graduate students. Posture assessment is an important part of clinical examination and reveals a ton of information if you know what to look for. For example, have you noticed, most adults have one shoulder (usually right) a little down than the other?
People who study body language look at posture from another perspective. The postures of every animal reflect its mood and humans are no exception. When you feel confident you automatically assume a broad shoulder, tall head stance. Likewise, when one feels defeated his/her posture demonstrates a hunched back and rounded shoulders.
While the state of body and mind affects posture is an observable and verifiable fact, the interesting question here is, can the reverse be also true? Can changing the posture alter our mind and body? Or, borrowing from Tagore, does the mind become fearless when the head is held high?
Yes and no.
In a remarkable study published in 2010 Amy Cuddy along with her associates demonstrated that certain postures, when maintained for as little as 1 minute can increase the level of testosterone, the hormone associated with power. these postures are termed as open postures or more popularly ‘power poses’. They involve standing or sitting in such a way where the limbs are spread out to take up more space. One common example is to stand like a superhero, legs apart, hands on the side of the hips. Another power pose is relaxing like a boss, which involves positioning the hands behind the head with elbows pointing outwards, and legs on the desk.
Cuddy and her associates also found that the opposite of open posture ( termed as closed posture) increases the level of stress hormone (cortisol) which is related to fear and anxity. Fascinating isn’t it?
Unfortunately, these findings are probably too good to be true. Other scientists trying to replicate the experiment were unable to observe similar changes in the blood level. Consequently, one of the authors of the original paper issued a statement retracting their theory.
Cuddy on the other hand kept on researching on these lines. In a series of scientific papers, she had been able to prove that the power poses make people feel powerful, even if the release of actual hormone could not be established yet.
What is in it for you
It is established that mood alters posture and posture alters mood.
Be attentive of your posture. When you are depressed tired or anxious avoid sinking into closed posture. Choose one of the open postures instead to feel happier and in control. Good posture had always been associated with work efficiency, health, and painlessness. Looks like the postures can make you feel good about yourself too! Shouldn’t these be motivation enough to maintain good posture?
Cuddy’s research says open postures make us feel powerful. Have you experienced that? Or do you think it is untrue? Let us know in the comments section.
About the author
Dr Subhanjan Das (PT)
BPT, MPT (MSk & Sports), CMP(NZ), Diploma in football medicine (FIFA)
Consultant Physiotherapist of Apollo & Reliva Clinic, HSR Layout, Bangalore
Contact: +91 8967549104
Dr Subhanjan Das (PT) has over 14 years of clinical and 12 years of academic experience. A friendly professional with lots of patience and skilful hands, Dr Subhanjan has worked with thousands of his patients for instant relief of pain and rapid return to activities. He has treated elite athletes for recovery, injury prevention and performance enhancement.
Dr Das is specialized in Orthopaedic and sports physiotherapy and has keeps himself updated with the latest advancements in the field of physiotherapy. He has undergone training on advanced orthopaedic techniques such as Dry Needling, Mulligan Concept, McKenzie method, Pilates, Cupping therapy, McConnel and kinesio taping from the best faculties around the world.
Dr Das has taught in 5 universities across India and has trained physiotherapists in 50+ workshops within and outside India.
Highly motivating post. Thank you.
Valuable information sir. Thank you sir.
Well said sir “the reverse can also be true” what a good reminder . Thankyou sir for making us think the either way