When your hand muscles are relaxed, your hand should lie open with your fingers slightly curled.
This natural, slightly curved position reflects the resting tone of the muscles and tendons in your hand. The joints are designed in such a way that complete straightness requires active muscle engagement. Therefore, a relaxed hand will not be perfectly straight and stiff but will exhibit a gentle, natural curve.
Think of it like this:
- Active State: To make a fist or fully straighten your fingers, you need to consciously engage your muscles.
- Relaxed State: When you release that tension, your hand returns to its default, slightly curved position.
This position is also the most energy-efficient for your hand. Maintaining a fully open or tightly closed position requires continuous muscle contraction, which can lead to fatigue. Allowing your hand to rest in its naturally curved state minimizes strain and maximizes comfort.
