It's never too early or too late to work towards being the healthiest YOU
....so start with your posture
- anonymous -
Dear Reader
Most of us are aware that correct posture and proper alignment are of great importance, and on closer inspection, it transpires that it is the foundation of our overall health.
All our 11 bodily systems rely on it and depend on each other for optimal functioning, and like the Domino Effect, each one needs the others to maintain good health.
However, correct posture isn’t limited to a beautiful ballerina stance, but encompasses the alignment of all our internal organs, our muscles, as well as the nervous system.
It is therefore a good idea to start any health journey with assessing our posture first, and if need be, seeking the help of a professional that can help with aligning our musculoskeletal system, and advise us on a way forward.
In this issue of Sanko Insights, we explore effective therapies and activities which can help with postural alignment, and share informative articles from specialist Pilates, Myofascial Release and Biokinetics practitioners.
We are also delighted to share with you short videos on realigning your nervous system from a Yoga and Meditation expert, and a quick overview into the importance of our Vagus nerve, and simple tips how to keep a good vagal tone.
In addition, please check out the online courses from Posture Ellie and (P)Rehab Guys, who can guide you to strength and better alignment with their easy to do exercise routines from the comfort of your home.
Enjoy!
Vamshi, Zee and the Sankō team
Postural Alignment = Overall Health
From the ancient practices of Yoga where correct posture and alignment is key for maximum health benefits, many rehabilitative, hands-on therapies and healthful activities of today are based on the same basic principles of correct postural alignment, and despite their varying approaches and techniques, they have one common goal - to help people improve their overall health, and enjoy a better quality of life.
We are all unique with varying tastes and physical abilities, so luckily there are numerous modalities we can explore and engage in to find out which resonates with us the most.
So if you'd like to improve your posture and align your body overall, why not try something different? You could try a Ballet or Chi Gong class near you, or explore the following practices:
Correct posture is about maintaining the alignment of the 3 natural curves of the spine and our weight evenly distributed over both feet, in order for the body to function as nature intended. When our bones and joints are in the right position, it not only reduces the risk of injury and wear and tear, but the muscles work more efficiently, one can breathe more freely, the digestive system functions optimally and our circulation and central nervous systems work as expected.
Enjoy the health benefits of Selina's short videos, helping you to regulate and balance your nervous system for overall easiness.
Video 1 (9 mins) focuses on neck mobility, helping to release the tension we carry in the region Video 2 (6 mins) focuses on the Vagus nerve/Vagal tone Video 3(8 mins) focuses on the breath and on being present, while drifting into a comfortable meditation
Vagus Nerve activation
The Vagus nerve, or the "Wandering" Nerve, is the longest cranial nerve in the body, and is the major bi-directional messenger between the brain and all of our organs and glands, involved in practically every function in the body including digestion and the immune system.
There are several factors that can put pressure on the nerve, which can severely impact our health. Constant spinal misalignment, slouching and 'text-neck' for example, as well as sleeping in an awkward position, so please be aware of these in order to improve your Vagal tone.
If you'd like to learn more about how Vagus Nerve function impacts our health, please check out Dr. Navaz Habib's amazingly detailed yet easy to read book.
Evidence-based experiences
Our picks are based on evidence and quality. We solely recommend them for the health benefit of users. Sanko has a strict policy of no sponsors or advertisers.
Posture Perfect with Posture Ellie
6 week programme aimed at restoring function to the joints in your body
Learn the basics of posture with 7 different posture routines to try, which become more challenging week on week.
Posture Perfect is Posture Ellie’s original online course, and contains a handful of introductory videos and 7 exclusive, postural improvement exercise routines to help you improve your posture, balance, strength and function, in a methodical way that gets more challenging over time.
Suitable for those just starting out in the world of posture, this is less theory-heavy and more of a taster to posture therapy than Groundwork, a more comprehensive programme.
Foot & Ankle (P)rehab programme with The (P)rehab Guys
The (P)rehab Guys offer a series of comprehensive programmes on strengthening the body, and their Foot and Ankle strengthening programme is a great way to learn useful exercises as tools for a steady good posture, in order to enjoy life to the full.
The Foot & Ankle [P]rehab Program is a physical therapist developed, step-by-step program to help you minimise Foot & Ankle pain and optimise your lower body health.
It will teach you how to regain and improve mobility and balance as well as how to build a strong foundation through your entire leg from the bottom up starting with your foot and ankle.
Curated bookshelf
Postural Awareness
By Andries Lodder
Many of us believe that our posture is very good, but the truth is that our brain has adapted to feeling balanced and straight even when we’re not.
Posture refers to a person’s body in space and the alignment of different body parts in relation to one another.
Constant bad posture can lead to musculoskeletal misalignment causing pain, and to correct this, we need to have postural awareness.
Sanko: The one stop Wellbeing & Lifestyle Medicine platform
for prevention and practical management of multiple chronic health conditions
Please note that the information provided in this newsletter is intended for informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical care if your symptoms or health conditions are severe. If they are, please consult your medical practitioner
