When astronauts launch, they never sit up straight. The gravitational forces are apparently better handled in a reclining position. Makes sense, right? So why do people think we should sit up straight? Where does that belief come from?

Oh, what I would do for an office that had a recliner with a monitor suspended above me, like the astronauts…

I always felt like reclining was a more comfortable position and was often scolded in school for my posture. The highlight of abuse came from Mrs. Hebert, a french teacher in high school, who asked me “are you retarded or something” when I slouched in my desk during her class.

Well, research has started to come forward to state the obvious: a reclining position is better for your health.

They told the Radiological Society of North America that the best position in which to sit at your desk is leaning slightly back, at about 135 degrees.

Experts said sitting was known to contribute to lower back pain.

Data from the British Chiropractic Association says 32% of the population spends more than 10 hours a day seated.

The cost to the economy of the incorrect ergonomics must be significant. How much more rested and ready would staff be if they were allowed to assume a more relaxed position?

Unbelievably, despite all the facts staring us in the face, the most common office furniture today threatens humans with a harmful position.

And what about airplanes? Why not start the flight in a reclining position? Would it really be that hard for people to get out of their chairs in an emergency?

Perhaps the reasons for the upright position are to do with “regal” or “monarchial” habits from western culture — it is more proper to be perpendicular, or even leaning forward, and easier to dethrone a king who sits upright.

One thing is certain, those who are not bound by the past traditions of others and left to establish their own are more inclined to recline.