Scientists conducting research at San Francisco State University found that body posture does affect the way people feel.
110 students were asked to walk down a corridor with slouched shoulders before filling in a questionnaire designed to gage their energy levels and mood.
The same group of volunteers were then asked to skip down the same corridor. All 110 students reported feeling more energised and less depressed when they skipped, compared to when they slouched.
The results of the study have been published in the journal Biofeedback, in which Professor of Health Education Erik Peper wrote: “When you choose to put your body in a different mode, it’s harder to drop into depression.”
He added that it is also possible to increase your energy levels while sitting down by moving into a more upright position.
Previous research found that slouching made people look fatter, cut off circulation and increased stress levels.
NBC News found that people who slouch at work look non-vital and inferior, perceptions that could prevent them from progressing socially and professionally.
Mr Peper said that it is possible to fool your body into feeling revitalised simply by acting. Forcing a skip into your step, or sitting up straighter at your desk will wake your mind up and help you to concentrate.
So, next time you feel drained and ready to flop, try sitting up a little straighter or, if the coast is clear, have a quick skip up and down the corridor!
To find out how hypnotherapy could help you deal with depressive feelings, please visit our page about Depression.
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