Your shoulders are not just hanging there. They are deeply influenced by the way you sit, stand and move throughout the day. One of the most overlooked causes of shoulder tightness and stiffness is something you do without even thinking about it: your posture.

Many of us spend hours each day sitting or looking at screens. Over time, this leads to a forward slump, where the shoulders round in and the chest collapses. When this becomes a habit, it changes the balance of your muscles:

• Chest muscles become shortened and tight.
• Upper back muscles get stretched and weakened.
• Shoulder joints lose their natural freedom to move.

This can make it harder to lift your arms, reach overhead or even stretch without discomfort. The good news is that small adjustments in your posture can create real improvement in shoulder mobility and overall comfort.

Here is one simple thing to practise today:

• Pull your shoulders gently back and down, like you are sliding them into your back pockets.
• Imagine a string lifting you from the crown of your head, helping you grow taller and lighter.

Try checking in with your posture a few times during the day. Set a reminder if you need to. With practice, this will become more natural and less effortful.

Remember, improving shoulder health is not just about stretches or exercises. It is also about how you carry yourself between those sessions. Your posture is part of your movement practice too.