*On Tuesday we celebrated World Spine Day!*
When we think of our bodies and what connects us from top to bottom the first thing that comes to mind is our spine. Our spine is attached from the base of our skull to the top of our pelvis. Yet what do you think about when you think of “spinal health?”
The spine is a long series of bones (vertebrae), uniquely able to bear the weight and allow movement of a human being as it stands up on two legs and moves forward towards life. It is incredibly strong and flexible by design.
*If the spine is supposed to be strong and flexible by default, what might be getting in the way of the spine being able to do its natural job?*
Let’s take a step back and look at the bigger picture:
1. Muscles attach to bones
2. Muscles move bones – and yet…
3. Our BRAIN moves our muscles
*Could it be that spinal health starts with the brain and how it organizes our muscles and movement?*
The answer from a Clinical Somatics perspective is yes. If the myriad muscles that attach to our spine (which allow the vertebrae to articulate, the shoulders, pelvis, legs, and neck to move freely) are holding excess tension they can contribute to pressure on the spine.
When the muscles around our spine (the “center”) are constantly contracted nerve conduction and sensory-motor control are compromised. This contributes to limited spinal mobility.
Somatic Movements and pandiculation can teach you to create space in your spine so it can gently rotate, flex, extend, and support you in all your daily activities.
*This is the stable base you need upon which to strengthen your beautiful spine through functional movement. *