Knowing Our Bodies

Physical structure is largely determined at birth. Each person’s body is different, and this influences how the load is distributed across various areas. For example, some people naturally have lifted buttocks due to a slight posterior tilt of the lower lumbar spine and sacrum. This posture can increase pressure on the lumbar spine and hip joints, especially when sitting for long periods.

Others may have high arches in their feet, which can place additional strain on the knees and hips during walking. Over time, improper movement patterns or inappropriate exercise may compress the meniscus, which is one reason some of my patients eventually require knee replacement.

My daughter, before she was nine years old, was one of the tallest students in her class. In photos, she often had to stand in the back because of her height. However, through observation and simple testing, I noticed that when she did the forward bend, she had difficulty touching her toes. Her long legs made her lumbar spine appear relatively shorter, contributing to tightness in both her hamstrings and lower back muscles.

These examples highlight an important principle: structure influences function, but function also shapes structure over time. The way we move, sit, stand, and exercise can either support or strain our bodies.

My focus is to encourage this awareness: to help people observe their bodies, understand the changes that occur over time, and adapt their movement accordingly. With this understanding, we can make better choices in how we sit, move, and exercise.

Let’s listen to our bodies, respect them, and share positive energy together. By becoming more aware of how we feel and respond, we can better support our well-being and create a healthier, more balanced life.

I am here to support you in listening to and understanding your body.


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