Sidelying Breathing and Body Opener

I know many people are concerned about their posture. As we move through life, we all have unique ways of navigating our way against gravity. 

And because of the wear and tear associated with that, issues like…slouched posture, flared ribcage, and barrel chest (to name a few), can affect both our mobility and comfort…negatively. 

Ribcage problems can go beyond aesthetics and posture mind you…they can also influence our breathing and often cause us pain.

So, what I have for you today is a strategy that has been successful for folks who struggle with neck, shoulder, upper back restrictions. 

This move will help open the front of our ribcage (upper chest area) without causing excessive strain on our back.

Think of it as a breathing strategy that allows our body to expand naturally.

Here’s what you’re gonna need:

-Clear/Comfortable/Quiet space

-Something for your head/neck

Check out my video below. Sound ON!  🔊 

Here’s what you’re gonna do as DEMONSTRATED:

-Lie on your RIGHT SIDE. Head and neck comfortable.

-LEGS STACKED upon one another. KNEES below HIPS.

-Place your bottom RIGHT ARM on the ground. Elbow soft.

-Place your top LEFT ARM across your chest and GENTLY GRASP and TUG on your RIGHT COLLAR BONE.-ROLL your HEAD and TORSO backwards so that your line of vision changes slightly.

🫁Breathing mechanics:

-SILENT, SLOW NASAL INHALE: 4-6 count (You should not hear yourself!)

-OPEN MOUTH SOFT SIGHING EXHALE: 4-6 count

💡Pretend you’re fogging up a glass right in front of your face when exhaling.

PRACTICE: 5-10 minutes DAILY

Notice how you move and feel afterward. Better? Same? Different?

REMEMBER…REAL CHANGE requires an investment of our time, effort, and consistency in doing what’s necessary…not just what’s appealing. And as we get older, we want to train SMARTER, not harder. ;)

Questions? Comments? I am always happy to help. I’m here for you!

Dedicated to your health and longevity,

Mike

P.S. Take your movement practice to the next level! At Longevity Personal Fitness, my approach will help you train smart, change the way you move, and feel good...all without wearing you down.

Please share this blog with your friends and family if you found it helpful. Together, we can help them on their journey to better health...feeling stronger, more coordinated, flexible, and capable! Click the link HERE to join the community!