Shoulders Back
When I cast my memory back to the night of my matric farewell, the first memory that always pops up, is the memory of my mother’s voice as she stood in the entrance foyer of the school hall and we processed in, feeling like princesses on the arm of our partners, being summoned by the school principal and Bishop of the Diocese (I was at a Catholic school). As I passed my parents on my left, my mother leaned forward and said “SHOULDERS BACK”. It was one of her many mantras in her Parenting Toolkit. For her it was about posture and grace and walking like a lady!! None of these seemed relevant to me at the time.
Fast forward a decade or two, I am qualified as a Play Therapist and assisting among others, children who are anxious or shy. As part of the intervention, I coach them to stand tall, shoulders back and look at the person they are talking to. I realize that SHOULDERS BACK is much more than posture and grace and looking good in a pretty dress. It’s about confidence and feeling strong and not hiding from the immediate audience.
Now, another few decades later, having entered the world of being a Senior citizen I realize that one big difference between Seniors who look old and those that don’t is the way the walk and stand and carry themselves. I realize my back hurts much less when I stand up straight and slouch less in my chair. When I stand tall and look the audience in the eye I am taken more seriously then, when I mumble into my blouse. Walking up straight with shoulders back helps me see more clearly, breathe better and engage more meaningfully.
It’s too late to commend my mother on her mantra. Sadly, SHOULDERS BACK at the time, seemed more like a critical bark than a considered phrase to facilitate my path into the world. Fortunately, we have entered a new parenting practice, rules are explained and not barked without explanation. YAHOO!!!
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The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns regarding your mental or physical health, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
