Many women have the habit of carrying a small world in their handbag - from keys and cosmetics to snacks and books - the burden of which falls on their shoulders; or rather, one shoulder. But, according to research done by the American Chiropractic Association, one's bag should not weigh more than 10 per cent of one's body weight, and should also not be carried on one side. Highlighting the same in an Instagram post, Juhi Kapoor, a yoga expert, wrote, "As a woman, carrying a bag on the shoulder is the most common habit. But this really disrupts symmetry. We don't even realise how much we tend to tighten one shoulder to ensure the loop of the bag doesn't slip. Unknowingly, we create imbalance and cause postural problems in the future." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Juhi Kapoor (@theyoginiworld) She added that while it may seem like a simple thing, "it has a long-term impact - holding your purse on one shoulder for longer duration." Kapoor further explained that this poor symmetry may cause neck, shoulder and even upper back pain. "Yoga is not just the asanas you do on the mat. Yoga is also about the posture you maintain in your routine," she further wrote, suggesting to hold the bag over the forearm or in your hands. Alternatively, it is recommended to limit the weight of your bag, regularly switch the side on which you carry the bag, and use a bag with a wider strap to distribute the weight more evenly. According to Dr Sanjay Desai, Arthroscopy & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Bhatia Hospital, Mumbai, "If the bag is heavy, it may fatigue the muscle of the shoulder you are carrying it on. It is recommended to carry a cross-body bag for lighter weight. For heavier weight, it would be ideal to carry a backpack (which mountaineers carry)." However, the expert recommended against carrying the bag on the forearm because forearm muscles are not designed and equipped to carry weight for a prolonged amount of time. "If you do so, the muscles will get fatigued," he added. Agreeing to this, Dr Gururaj Sangondimath, Sr Consultant and Unit Head, Department of Spine Surgery, Indian Spinal Injuries Center, New Delhi said, " It is only advisable to hold a lightweight bag on your forearm for a limited amount of time. Otherwise, it is advisable to carry a cross-body bag or hold the bag in your hand." 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
