Perfect Posture for TIFF (Standing Edition)

If ever there is a time for you pay attention to your posture - it's when you know you're going to be photographed.  Well, starting tomorrow, The Toronto International Film Festival kicks off.  I am thinking now would be that time. 

Dr. Stephanie's Perfect Posture Tips for Standing:

Picture it: TIFF is in full swing. You're sipping champers, on your A game, standing next to Ed Norton. From the ground up, this is what you should be thinking about (other than the glaringly obvious: omg I'm standing next to Ed Norton!)

• Squeeze your Pelvic Floor Muscles  (If you are female, I am talking about doing Kiegel exercises, and if you are a guy, I am talking about squeezing muscles that help you stop the flow of urine.)  I know what you're thinking.  Why did she have to start off with the urine muscles?!  Well, simply, no strong pelvic floor muscles means no control of bladder or bowel movements, and, in keeping with the theme of this post - bad posture!
• Squeeze your Lower Abs (this will not only make you appear slimmer, but it will naturally create a strong base of support for the rest of your spine, which rests on your pelvis)
• Slide your Shoulder Blades down your Back (imagine you are trying to get your shoulder blades into the back pocket of your jeans)
• Elongate Your Clavicle (think about spreading your shoulders apart, and *slightly* puffing out your chest.  No, not peacocking, just a slight, barely visible extension of your chest.)
• Elongate your Neck (think about lining up your ears with your shoulders... your head is perched perfectly on your shoulders, and enters the room at the same time your body does!)

To explain further:

These next 2 pictures are the same actress. Ya sure,in this photo the dress is gorge, necklace to die for, great hair, makeup, etc.

BUT.

Compare it to the photo below. Totally different attitude, aura, and confidence coming from her.  And it is all from her posture.

 

See?? Her shoulders are back, elongated, and her neck is over her shoulders.

Believe me, I get it when patients say to me that maintaining good posture is hard, not to mention a lot to think about.  It is something I myself have to consciously work on too. But like anything worth having, good posture is habit that takes time, patience, and attention.  Just start out with trying one or two of these tips, and work your way up.