Standing chest proud, gives us strength and empowerment.
When we stand chest proud we expose the vulnerability of our heart. The body combats by releasing the hormone testosterone. Testosterone engages the nervous system to project an image of power, real or otherwise.
In the animal kingdom, the power posture is an essential weapon of survival. In many cases, the rival animal will not engage in battle if it perceives a stronger opponent.
In the human world, a true power is not aggression; it is confidence to enable our self to become who we need to be. Taking on an image of confidence is not only about how other people perceive us; it is how we perceive ourselves and consequently how we act and react to life.
Amy Cuddy a social psychologist and associate professor at Harvard Business School conducted a study on a “ two minute power pose” and its effect on performance particularly in a job interview.
The findings were extraordinary; just two minutes of power posing changed the participates psychology enough to make them feel powerful, more positive, in control, and optimistic about their future. Consequently, they were more likely to be chosen for hire.
Exercise changes our physiology and regulates our hormones. The power pose (chest proud) engages muscle to hold ourselves upright with confidence. Muscles trigger the use of testosterone as opposed to cortisol the stress hormone. High levels of cortisol effects weight, immune functions, and chronic disease risks.
Testosterone gives us the feeling of “I can achieve” and invokes positive self-talk. Being “chest proud” empowers us to live a strong and healthy life.
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Be fit, be proud
Anna
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