Paramhansa Yogananda called the spinal cord a “lightning rod for the divine.”

Our central nervous system (CNS) which is comprised of our brain and spinal cord, is our central processing unit. ​Almost every signal sent from the body, from the fingers to the toes, makes its way to the central nervous system by way of the spinal cord. Almost every command about balance, movement, and breath also travels via the spine. So, it would make logical sense that the health of our spines is extremely important.

Our spines are designed with natural curves so that we can stand upright and withstand the effects of gravity. As newborns, our spines are anatomically more “straight” because only the primary curves of the mid (thoracic) and sacrum are formed. The secondary curves of the neck (cervical) and the low back (lumbar) aren’t fully formed at birth. The process of crawling is instrumental in the formation of these secondary spinal curves. When we learn to crawl, the cervical curve is developed by having to hold the weight of the head as we move. The weight of the belly while on all fours helps develop the lumbar curve. Once the child begins to walk upright, the curves provide the proper support to maintain an upright position.

Our spines are designed for both mobility and stability. The neck (cervical) and mid (thoracic) spine are the most mobile parts of our spines, while the lower (lumbar) spine and sacrum are built for stability. It is important that we maintain both strength and mobility in our spinal structures so the spinal cord remains impingement free, allowing us to move freely and with ease. To keep the spine healthy, we must consider keeping the body, as a whole, strong and mobile. This can sometimes be challenging in a world where we sit for hours at a time in a body that was built and designed to MOVE!

As a yoga teacher and massage therapist, I see firsthand the effects on the physical body of prolonged sitting, especially as it relates to the spine. When we sit, most of us are not thinking about our posture, we are busy working and stressing out. Unfortunately, for many of us that sit for long periods of time, we develop muscular imbalances, most often muscle weakness. Remembering that we want to maintain both mobility and stability in the spine, so we must work not only the muscles of the back, but also the abdominal muscles that help support the spine. Yoga is a great way to strengthen and mobilize the spine. Work with an experienced teacher who understands the anatomy of the body and can help you navigate through your specific needs to achieve and maintain a healthy spine!