Meetings and video calls are often when slouching creeps in. You’re listening, concentrating or leaning towards the screen, and it’s easy to stay in one position for an hour or more. The good news is that resets can be completely discreet, so you can do them without anyone noticing.

Why meetings make it harder

In meetings, your attention is on the conversation, not your body. On video calls, many people lean towards the camera or screen to look engaged. Both make it easy to sink into one position.

A reset at the start

The start of a meeting is a natural cue. As you join, you could:

• Sit all the way back in your chair.
• Give a small chin nod and shoulder roll.
• Take one slow breath.

That sets you up in a comfortable position before the conversation pulls your focus.

Discreet resets during a meeting

Even with your camera on, you can:

• Roll your shoulders back and let them drop.
• Shift your weight from one side to the other.
• Sit tall for a few breaths while someone else is talking.
• Uncross and re-cross your legs or plant both feet on the floor.

On calls you’re mostly listening to, standing up or walking for part of it changes your position completely.

Video calls

If you find yourself leaning towards your screen, it can help to bring the screen closer or turn up the volume, so you don’t need to lean in.

Something to try this week

At the start of every meeting or call this week, do a quick reset as you join. Notice how long you stay comfortable afterwards.

What to take away

• Meetings and calls are common times for slouching to creep in.
• A reset as you join a meeting sets you up comfortably.
• Shoulder rolls, weight shifts and a few tall breaths are all discreet.
• Bring the screen closer rather than leaning in.

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