Efficient movement is what everyone wants. But what is it and how is efficient movement different from effective movement? First, let’s make clear that we are all moving with the maximum efficiency our nervous system allows. That is, we do our best with the resources we are aware of—not necessarily the
This article focuses on the body’s movement system. It includes a brief overview of relevant anatomy, the nervous system, and how the brain ties it all together in a chosen activity, resulting in greater efficiency and movement quality. We break down the stages of learning new movements and provide simple tips for
We’re all b in pursuit of that brighter, whiter smile. Unfortunately, things like red wine, our coffee addiction, or, even more surprising, things like antibiotics and berries are keeping us from maintaining those pearly whites. If you’re looking to brighten your smile but you also want to steer clear of the chemicals
Every efficient movement should involve the whole body. Some parts of the body will occasionally be stable to allow efficient movements to occur, but eventually all body parts will be involved in an efficient movement. A movement that is isolated to one joint or one small part of the body is not
Any movement combines stability and mobility. Stability is not usually absolute. It may mean an area of the body will be held still or move through a controlled pattern during a certain part of an action. When we blend stability and mobility, we are able to control the movement of different
Progressive relaxation is an active method of releasing unwanted tension in the body. This technique can be done anywhere and at any time to help release stress and reestablish a sense of calmness. Before beginning or finishing your fusion workout, you can go through a series of progressive relaxation exercises. This method
In a world that continually conspires to draw your attention outward, seeking external input and approval, the act of personal inquiry can fly in the face of cultural norms. Although it may be uncomfortable at times, becoming aware and making fully conscious life choices offers you the potential to live and act
It’s no secret that technology is changing our bodies and brains. If you were born before the 1970s and can remember a time when you didn’t have a smart phone, laptop, tablet, or flat screen as part of your daily routine, you have probably already sensed these changes in yourself and seen
Yoga Therapy as a Call to Personal Action Traditional yoga practices offer a set of guidelines for fulfilling one’s potential, known as self-realization. People who choose to fully engage in this process use these structures as a mechanism for deeper levels of self-understanding. It starts with learning how to slow down and
When we talk about achieving optimal health through yoga therapy, one of the most interesting considerations is shifting from a medical model to a holistic model of treatment. A medical model assumes a subject–object relationship between the health care provider and client. This means that the provider (subject) is expected to effect