Standing for a Good Self-Image by Dan Peterson, Physical Therapist In my first article, I introduced the pneumonic S-T-A-N-D-I-N-G and some characteristics of standing that are important to our health. This article will discuss the importance of standing on a healthy self-image. Unfortunately, the importance that society places on height (or standing) may place an undue burden on those who are of short stature or those who are unable to stand. Height, or a position of being higher, often represents authority. The judge's bench is situated higher than the counselor's table. Teachers stand, students sit. Public speakers project from an elevated lectern. Even in nature, the momma bear will stand on two legs when protecting its young. But, one must not get confused with how this plays on self-image. Being unable to physically stand without assistance should not equate to inferiority (or poor self-image). Self-image is related to how we view our "place" in society. When we are "proud", we feel tall; when we are "ashamed" we feel small. Self-image is more than just having the ability to stand tall (or take the high ground), it is manifested in how we "see" ourselves in relation to others around us. One common factor in the examples above was the position of one's eyes in relation to the other party. The position of the lower ground may cause a feeling of submission. How would the examples be different if the parties were face to face? The point I am trying to make is this: being wheelchair bound should not carry with it the baggage that society places on the "lower ground". Put in a different way, self-image should not be related to one's physicial position in society. Unfortunately, until we learn this we sometimes need help along the way. The Standing Chair is one tool that provides physical assistance to those that cannot stand on their own. Allowing individuals to get at "eye-level" with the world again may be the catalyst that begins to re-establish, or maintain, good self-image by physically restoring one's "place" in society. In the articles to come, I will continue to discuss other issues that support the importance of standing. For now, I would like to leave you with the following quotes on self-image: "You can't choose your circumstance, but you can choose to overcome them." (author unknown). "If you believe you can, you can. If you believe you can't, you're probably right. (author unknown). "If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves" (Thomas Edison) Now, go forth and "astound" yourself!!

Click on the photo above to view a larger version and caption.