Powerposing is a technique implemented by performers, public speakers, and athletes that involves adopting Wonder Woman-like body postures with the goal of asserting power and dominance. As we find ourselves dealing with the stresses of everyday life (especially during a pandemic), we may find it overwhelming to cope with the world around us. However, there is a simple strategy that you can use to combat this that also works to reduce anxiety, improve your ability to deal with stress, and boost your confidence. The best part? It works immediately and only takes two minutes.
Here’s two big reasons why you should implement powerposing into your daily routine:
- Natural Confidence Booster: A study completed by researchers at Harvard University included participants sitting in either a high-power pose or low-power pose for two minutes. The researchers found that the high-power pose had the largest impact on confidence, and those who sat in high-power pose performed better in mock interviews than those who had not. In other words, by actually “commanding a powerful stance, we can make ourselves actually feel more powerful.”
- Balances Your Hormones: It is important to keep your hormones balanced because your levels of each hormone can change rapidly depending on the social, physical, and environmental cues you are experiencing. Studies suggest that those who adopted high-power poses demonstrated an increase in testosterone and a decrease in cortisol (stress hormone). These hormonal effects further support evidence that powerposing can decrease stress and lead to an increase in feelings of power.
And here’s a list of powerpose examples that you can try:
- Plant your feet widely and stretch your arms overhead in a V shape: Before you take on your duties for the day, raise your arms up into a “V” shape, and widen your stance so that your feet are shoulder-width apart. Do it in the elevator, stairwell, in your office, or in the bathroom. Hold the pose for two minutes to check in with yourself, set hormonal changes in motion, and give yourself the confidence you need to tackle your day.
- Puff out your chest, plant your hands on your hips, and stand with your feet hip-width apart: This powerpose is called “The Wonder Woman.” Begin by putting both hands into a fist and place them on your hips, like a superhero. Widen your stance and take deep breaths. Tilt your chin up to maximize the power trip. You can get the best results by doing this pose for two minutes while looking in the mirror. In addition, you can repeat positive affirmations to yourself to bring out your inner superman or superwoman.
- Plant your hands on the table and lean forward: “The Loomer” is a pose perfect for asserting your dominance in a group setting. To do this pose, start by standing behind a desk or table and lean forward with your feet spread apart. This pose shows your classmates or coworkers that you’re engaged while being able to remain in a calm yet powerful stance. It also allows you to be physically higher than any doubts or uncertainties in front of you. You will be able to intimidate others and get a strong confidence boost by implementing this pose into your daily routine.
