This phone holding posture could increase anxiety and fatigue. Are you doing it?

"Your posture can actually affect your mood and mental state!" Schulman wrote in a recent Instagram video. In the video, she demonstrated two contrasting positions: one showing the typical slouched posture, common among smartphone users, which she said reinforces feelings of stress and low energy, as reported by Times of India.

She then switched to an upright position, with her chest open, shoulders back, and chin aligned, showing how this simple adjustment immediately boosted her alertness and positivity. "So, sit up straight and you may feel more attentive, happy, and confident!" she wrote.

According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, people in the U.S. spend an average of three hours and 15 minutes on their phones each day, checking them approximately 58 times. When using their devices, many people bend their heads forward at a 45-degree angle to look at the screen, which increases the risk of developing "tech neck", a condition causing chronic pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. This poor posture also contributes to headaches and misaligns the spine.

Two people looking at a smartphone. Photo from Pexels

In one extreme case, a 19-year-old student from Quanzhou, Fujian Province, southern China, was left partially paralyzed after a prolonged habit of bending his head while using his phone, according to Fujian Health News.

Dr. Michael Hudak, from Dr. Hudak Chiropractic in Kansas City, Missouri, recommended holding your phone at eye level to maintain proper spinal alignment. Although it may feel unnatural initially, regularly practicing this habit can reduce neck strain over time. Hudak also advised taking breaks from your phone every 20-30 minutes, using that time to stretch your neck, move your body, and reset your posture.

To minimize slouching, it is important to sit or stand with feet flat on the ground, shoulders relaxed, and spine straight. Strengthening exercises for the neck and upper back, such as neck stretches, shoulder rolls, and upper back extensions, can help combat forward head posture and improve overall flexibility.

Being mindful of your posture, especially during phone use, can lead to healthier habits, prevent unnecessary strain, and promote long-term well-being.