What is Good Posture? Part 2

We should not take posture lightly. Few realize that posture is directly related to:

1. Low back or knee pain can arise from pelvic joint disorders
2. Headaches, eyestrain, and neck and upper back pain can be caused by the head being too far forward or rearward.
3. The effects of posture can be far reaching, involving respiratory, digestive, and circulatory systems as well as the musculoskeletal system.

Posture can be described as being both: static and dynamic. Static posture may be defined as "the position from which movement begins and ends." Dynamic posture may be defined as "the ability to maintain an optimal instantaneous axis of rotation in any combination of movement planes at any time in space."

Postural alignment, good strength and mobility of the trunk and extremities are essential to standing, walking erect, and using the arms and legs without causing unnecessary strain. The dynamic stability of the trunk when leaning forward or backward is vital to protect the spine from undue strain whether in sitting or standing, and whether quietly vertical or during dynamic weight shifting.

In my next blog I will present exercise ideas, using the stability ball to help us restore our posture in both static and dynamic modes.

To be continued

Let's connect at info@gaiaadventures.com. I would love to learn about your methods of dealing with postural issues with your clients.

Catherine D'Aoust at GAIA Adventures
http://www.gaiaadventures.com
Stability Ball Workshops accredited for therapists across Canada
604 329.1257



My next body ball workshop is April 18 (advanced one day): open to all, approved for Massage Therapists, Personal Trainers (7 BCRPA, MTABC credits/day). You may sign up for one day only or 2 days; held at the Holiday Inn, Broadway Street in Vancouver.

In Regina May 14, 15 and 16 (7 Primary Credits per day) in Toronto Sept 17, 18 and 19 (3.5 CEU's per day).