Has anyone ever told you to stop slouching and stand up straight?
If the answer is yes, then what I have for you today can really help. And it’s NOT about standing up straight…because that’s just gonna hurt your back;)
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.
Issues like slouched posture, flared ribcage, and barrel chest (to name a few) can affect both our mobility and comfort. Ribcage problems can go beyond aesthetics and posture…they can influence our breathing and often cause us pain.
The ribcage issue that I often see with my clients is SLOUCHED POSTURE…or a restriction in the upper chest area.
What I have for you today is a strategy that has been successful for these folks. This will help open the front of the ribcage (upper chest area) without causing excessive strain on the back.
Here’s what you’re gonna need:
-Clear/Comfortable space
-Yoga blanket or Bath/Beach towel folded lengthwise
-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 first with a folded blanket/towel under the top of your pelvis and ribcage
-LOWER LEG is bent below your hip. TOP FOOT is in front of your bottom ankle. TOP LEG held open the best you can.
-Place your TOP HAND ON TOP of your head and reach your elbow backward until you feel a SLIGHT STRETCH in your TOP CHEST area.
-Then bring your TOP ELBOW FORWARD a bit and slightly flared out.
-Press down on your head SLIGHTLY.
🫁BREATHING SEQUENCE:
-Open a relaxed mouth and exhale to help you settle in.
-Slow, Silent Nasal INHALE (4-6 count): You SHOULDN’T hear yourself!-Open, Relaxed Mouth Sighing EXHALE (4-6 count): Slow. Long. Easy. Relaxed. Soft. DAILY PRACTICE: Hold this position as demonstrated and breathe:
2-3rds/SIDE x 1min
Now, notice your breathing. Easier? Stand up…go for a walk…how do you feel? Lighter? Looser?
💡 REMEMBER…if we want to move and feel better as we age, we need to reset our bodies with a SMART…DAILY PRACTICE. REAL CHANGE takes time and consistency.
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.
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