If you’re an avid reader (like me!), you’ve probably spent hours engrossed in a book. But over time, the question we face is: Is our reading posture healthy for our bodies? What’s the best reading position?

Most of us don’t typically think about the best posture for reading, but we could all benefit from paying more attention. Let’s discuss what good reading posture is and what we can do to improve it!

What is the best reading posture? When searching for the best reading posture, it’s important to research ways to reduce stress and strain on your joints, eyes, back, neck, and more. However, it’s also important to note that each of us is different, and the most comfortable position for you may not be the most comfortable for someone else.

Ultimately, the best reading position should be the one that makes you feel comfortable. But it’s also important to note that certain reading postures are better at preventing discomfort and health problems in the long run, so making some modifications to your reading posture today can help you be comfortable in the long run (rather than just focusing on the comfort of the moment).

So what is the best posture for reading? According to research, the best posture for reading is to sit in a chair with your back straight, your feet firmly on the ground, your knees bent at a 90-degree angle, and your neck slightly forward, as shown in the figure below:

Sitting at a desk is one of the easiest ways to achieve this reading posture. As you can see, it’s important to keep your back straight and not hunch over to read a book, which usually means holding the book in your hand or placing it on a raised, sloping surface, such as a bookshelf or cushion.

This position prevents unnecessary tension and stress on the joints and muscles, and still allows for good blood flow, making it an ideal position for reading (especially when reading for long periods of time). However, for those of us who read for pleasure, it is unlikely that we will always use or comfortably hold this “ideal” position.

So what should we do? Well, let’s take a look at some other favorite reading positions and see what other options we have or ways to modify our favorite reading positions to make them better for us!

The best position to read in bed
Let’s be honest, many of us find ourselves reading in bed. It’s a cozy spot, perfect for reading before bed! So what’s the best way to read in bed?

Similar to reading in a chair, the optimal reading position (ergonomically speaking) in bed is vertical, so sit upright when reading. For those of us who like to read while completely lying down or sideways (like me!), this might take a little tweaking.

To help keep you upright while reading in bed, and to support your back in an ergonomic way, I recommend using a reading pillow (also known as a husband pillow or bed pillow). These pillows provide supportive arms for the sides and plenty of cushioning for the back and neck, so you may find that reading with a reading pillow in bed becomes your new favorite way to read!

This reading pillow is a good choice because it has higher back support than most and also allows you to adjust the fill level of the pillow in case you need it to be firmer or softer than the default pillow in certain places. It also has a removable neck support pillow and a pocket for small items, which are definitely added bonuses.

However, in addition to sitting vertically, you need to keep your legs relaxed and straight in front of you, and make sure you’re holding onto a book so you don’t have to lean your neck forward. Still, if you find yourself constantly wanting to read in bed, you may find that your arms tire of holding the book in an ergonomic position. So, buying a bookshelf that you can read in bed can be a good investment.

The best posture for reading at a desk
What is the correct posture for sitting at a desk and reading a book? As mentioned earlier, reading a book at a desk is one of the most ergonomic positions, and possibly the best.

You need to sit up straight with your back straight, your feet on the ground, your knees bent at a 90-degree angle, and your neck slightly forward. While this may not be your usual comfortable reading position, if you read for long periods of time, you may find that it is one of the most comfortable reading positions.

Good reading posture while sitting in a chair
Reading in a comfy chair or sofa should never be left out when looking for a comfortable reading position!

When reading on a couch or chair, the best sitting position is also upright, with knees at a 90-degree angle and feet planted on the floor. However, if you are sitting on the sofa, you can also use a reading pillow against the armrest, then sit up straight with your back against the pillow andyour feet on the ground.

In this position, you can hold the book in your hand or place it on a small table or cushioned surface in front of you. It’s important to avoid slouching or leaning forward, as this can cause strain on your neck and back.

Another option is to use a backrest pillow or a lumbar cushion to support your lower back while sitting. These pillows can help maintain good posture and prevent back pain while you read.

In conclusion, the best reading posture is one that is comfortable for you, but also takes into account the health of your body in the long run. Sitting upright with your back straight and your feet on the ground is generally the most ergonomic posture for reading, whether you’re sitting at a desk, on a chair, or in bed. Using pillows and cushions to support your back and neck can also help maintain good posture and prevent discomfort. With these tips, you can enjoy your favorite books without sacrificing your health!