Proactive posture. Healthy aging. Gravity. You. How does it all fit together?
Well, let's see. Several of my clients have "problem necks." And just the other day, I was having a conversation with one of them. Fortunately, her "problem neck" seems to be getting a better. But she and I both know that she's going to want to keep tabs on it over the next few years. So we were devising a little strategy.
One thing we both agreed on. It'll help her neck if she can keep tabs on her energy level.
How's that?
Let me explain.
One of the basic tenets of gravity is that it secures you to the earth. The position that requires the least of your energy to oppose gravity is lying down. Standing upright, even while doing nothing, requires a bit of effort on the part of your muscular system. When you stand, gravity continuously challenges your muscles to act in maintaining your posture. This, in turn, keeps your muscles toned and your bones healthy. Gravity, even as it challenges you, is a great friend.
When you look at a group of healthy young people, it's common to see a combination of youthful exuberance and erect posture (provided they've been raised on nutritious food in an affirming environment).
When you look at a group of mature adults, it's common to see a combination of exhaustion and degenerating posture. The more "mature" the group, the worse their posture degrades. Not everyone, of course. There are exceptions. We're talking averages here.
But let's digress. You've probably seen the few. People who are getting up in years, yet their posture is fantastic. What do you notice about these people? Here's what I see: a sparkle in their eye. Energy.
The group we want to belong to is the group of exceptions. Those who keep that sparkle in our eyes and our posture erect. You see, my observation is that it's the sparkle that makes our "stand" against gravity proactive.
Sure, you can get by with reacting. You've seen the folks who do that, too. They tolerate their existence and get by for one more day, one more week, one more year. Meanwhile, they stoop and hunch. Their backs and necks compress. They hurt. And they can't seem to figure out why.
(Hint: they're exhausted.)
But the "sparkle" people don't react to life. They cause it. At the same time, they cause their posture. And they feel great!
Let's us do it, too. Let's choose the sparkle. Ok?
Elizabeth Eckert can help you explore how simple everyday choices create health — or undermine even the best of intentions. With a background that ranges from energy medicine to structural bodywork to developmental psychology, this "Stick-To-It Coach" has the experience to support you in creating the healthiest possible expression of — you!
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