By Mary Parker Draper, Extension Agent – Smith County
“Straighten up.” I would often hear those words come out of my aunt’s mouth growing up. Not because I was not acting correctly, but because I was slouching. Occasionally, my aunt will still whisper those words in my ears.
Today, my back is hurting, and I am having to remind myself to sit up straight. Not only does bad posture have the potential to hurt your back, posture also has a massive impact on your overall health. The long-term effects of poor posture can affect digestion, breathing, muscles, joints, and ligaments. A person who has poor posture may often be tired or unable to work efficiently. Most of us could use the following tips for improving our posture in our technology-driven work and leisure habits.
- Be aware of your posture throughout the day, and realign yourself regularly.
- When standing for extended periods, try resting one foot on a low ledge or stool.
- Hold reading material at eye level.
- Exercise regularly to promote strong abdominal and back muscles.
Good posture contributes to good health and appearance. Begin early practicing good posture.
Pumpkin Cake
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 cup oil
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour OR use self-rising and only add cinnamon
2 teaspoons soda
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup raisins
2 cups pumpkin
Beat together eggs, sugar, and oil. Then add flour and cinnamon. Beat well. Stir in raisins, then add pumpkin. Bake at 325° in a dark pan (or 350° for other pans) for 45 minutes.
For the icing, cream together 1 8 oz package cream cheese and 1/2 stick margarine, then add 2/3 box confectioners sugar, 1/2 tablespoon vanilla, and 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, if desired. Keep refrigerated. Can be frozen and thawed for a later date. Submitted by Karen Patterson, Riddleton FCE Club.
