We Bend so we Don’t Break

One of the greatest yoga pioneers, B.K.S. Iyengar, famously said, “You are only as young as your spine.” But what exactly does he mean by this?

The spine is more than just a collection of bones running down your back - it’s the core of your body’s movement, balance and vitality. Keeping it healthy and moveable is essential not only for physical well-being but for maintaining a spring in your step.

Picture a tall and mighty tree. On the outset it might look stiff and rigid, but in a storm it’ll bend and move to counter the forces around it, and keep itself safe and upright.

Why is the Spine so Vital?

From head to tail, your spine consists of 33 little bones called vertebrae, forming the backbone of your body. These bones may seem rigid on their own, but they are connected by small joints, allowing for a range of movements. While the motion in each individual joint is minimal, when combined, these tiny movements enable your body to bend, twist, and flex in incredible ways.

Between each vertebra are small, gel-like cushions called intervertebral discs. These discs act as shock absorbers, cushioning your spine with each step, bend or twist. Around these bones and discs, a network of muscles and ligaments holds everything together, offering both strength and flexibility.

The Importance of Spinal Health

While we can’t change the bones themselves, we can influence the health of the muscles, discs and ligaments around them. Maintaining flexibility, stability and strength in these areas helps prevent stiffness, discomfort and injury as we age. Think of your spine like the foundation of a building. If the foundation is weak or immobile, the structure above can’t function optimally.

If you’ve ever experienced back pain or stiffness, you understand how quickly spinal issues can impact your daily life. However, the good news is that you have the power to keep your spine feeling youthful and resilient with just a little mindful movement each day.

So, How do we Keep the Spine Young?

To maintain spinal health, it’s essential to incorporate a variety of movements into your daily routine. The spine thrives on diversity of motion, so consider including the following:

1. Forward Bends: Think about gentle stretches that lengthen the spine and release tension in the lower back.

2. Backbends: These movements counteract the effects of sitting and slouching, opening the chest and increasing spinal flexibility.

3. Side Bends: Engaging the spine laterally stretches the muscles along the sides of the body, keeping your torso flexible and balanced.

4. Twists: Twisting helps to realign and rejuvenate the spine by maintaining mobility between the vertebrae and keeping the discs healthy.

Just a few minutes of these movements each day can work wonders for maintaining your spinal flexibility, strength, and overall well-being. Yoga, in particular, is an incredible practice for introducing all of these ranges of motion in a balanced, mindful way.

Vitality, Mobility and Longevity

A youthful spine is not only about physical health - it’s about vitality, mobility and longevity. Whether you’re standing tall, bending to pick something up, or simply sitting, your spine plays a key role in how you move and feel. So, take care of it, move mindfully, and let your spine lead you to a life full of energy, balance, and grace.