I'm going to share a simple idea that has a great affect on your health. Good posture. That's right. Why is it so important, you ask? When the spine is properly aligned with it's natural curvature and the entire body from the ears down to your feet are in balance, we maximize spinal health and avoid poor posture related pain and dysfunction. What is the ultimate goal of chiropractic? To eliminate interference! What does poor posture cause? Misalignments in the natural curvature of the spine and interference in nerve impulse. Ideal posture creates ideal balance, it optimizes breathing and circulation, both of which our bodies need to function properly!
What is the typical posture for someone sitting at a computer (and I'll just be honest right now, this is me at this very moment) slumped, bent back and round shouldered (and now I moved...ha ha). It's time to sit tall, stand tall and walk tall. This is an easy way to improve your spinal health at home all by yourself...and the best part...it's FREE! Just take two or three minutes a day to do a couple exercises to help keep you focused on keeping straight and your spine will thank you.
Four exercises to improve your spinal health.
1. The Butterfly - Standing and with head held high, belly button in, place your arms behind your head and gently pull your elbows backward. Slowly and gently press your head against your hands while counting to two. Relax, breathe and repeat three times.
2. Tilting Star - With head held high and belly button in, spread your arms and legs into a star. Breathe in and slowly stretch one arm over your head and slide your opposite arm down your leg. Slowly tilt your star to the opposite side. Relax and repeat two times.
3. Twirling Star - In the star position, turn your head to look at one hand. Slowly twist your entire spine to watch your hand as it goes behind you. Relax and repeat two times for each side.
4. The Hummingbird - With head held high and belly button in, put your arms out to the sides and your hands up and pull your shoulders together in the back. Now make small, backward circles with your hands and arms. Bend at the waist from side to side, keeping the circles going as you count to ten.
As with any exercise, make sure not to push your body beyond what is comfortable or your balance or strength level! Take care and sit up straight!
Have a great week!
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