Your Spine Reflects Your Life

“The shape, position, tension and tone of your spine determines the shape, position, tension and tone of your life” Donny Epstein.

I love this quote. It invites us to look at the big picture when assessing our spinal health, our overall health and our lives. They are all connected, how we move our bodies, what we eat, what we say and what we think all influence the expression of who we are. I am always happy to offer health advice, yet for the most part people know what is good for their health and well being, so I primarily focus on spinal tension, tone and position, knowing that as spinal function improves everything else improves. A key indicator I look for is breath that travels the length of the spine. A full relaxed breath is an indicator that the whole system is in a more relaxed state. From here shifts in posture and position are much easier. Subtle shifts create powerful system changes. With the massive amount of information that our Nervous System processes every day, having a resilient, resourceful spine and nervous system is key to leading a healthy happy life.

So along with eating healthy, exercise and quiet time to meditate and or sit in nature, include improved spinal awareness. Use subtle movements, full whole spine breaths and of course have your spine checked regularly. Notice as you move through your day where in your body you are holding stress, once you are aware of it, breath into that part of your body and allow it to move. Observe for associations between how and where you hold stress and the different types of stress triggers you manage each day. Stress in and of itself is not bad, many of us intentionally stress our bodies with exercise to help become more fit. It is prolonged stress that creates challenges for us, so stress awareness is key in helping us move through stress patterns enhancing our resourcefulness and adaptability. This helps us enjoy a healthier, happier life.