As the yogis say, you can measure your age by the flexibility of your spine. Unfortunately most people spend too much time seated and inactivity quickly leads to stiffness. As part of the ‘restore your body programme’ I recommended that you become more and more mindful of how you use your body throughout the day. And this includes moving around and stretching at regular intervals. When your spine is strong, supple and balanced, you are more likely to enjoy good overall health. Here are a few more benefits of a balanced spine:
- Enjoy better posture
- Feel younger
- Reduce tension/pain
- Have more energy
- Reduce risk of injury
The spine can move in four main ways…flexion, extension, rotation and side flexion. For many people, the spine is in an overly extended position and then it gets stuck there. The ideal spinal position is a neutral one…a relaxed and fluid mid point from which you can comfortably move in all directions. This is a natural place and one you should adopt when sitting, standing and walking.
If your spine tends to be overly extended, then you need it to flex…this weeks video offers one simple exercise that is perfect for this. Even if your spine doesn’t tend to be extended, this exercise is a lovely release for the lower and mid back. Please try it today and leave feedback below about how it works for you.
Take care
Thanks Danny
