Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1191154
THE REBEL MT technique 92 m a s s a g e & b o d y w o r k j a n u a r y / f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0 Posture. The favorite subject of bodyworkers worldwide. That topic of many an hour of study, many a focus of treatment, and much philosophical posturing. Pun intended! Posture has everyone talking about leg length discrepancy, forward-head posture, and—always a crowd favorite—slouching. Does it really matter? Is it really important to straighten up? Yes, it is. But this would be a very short article if that was all I had to say. Of course, it is important to stand in a way that is beneficial, sit in a way that is ergonomic, and walk in a way that is efficient. We learn about this in massage school. Analyzing posture and gait patterns tends to be one of the more popular classes. There is a deeper element at play, though, that deserves a brighter spotlight—movement. MOVEMENT—PHYSICAL AND SOCIAL The Merriam-Webster definition of movement is "change of place or position or posture." 1 Strictly speaking of physicality, we know this already. This is how we keep soft tissue and joints happy. Remember that the synovial fluid in all of our freely moving joints depends on movement for its production. And remember that lymph flow relies on the varying pressure that comes with the simple act of walking. With stagnation comes stiffness and rigidity. With movement comes fluidity and ease. So, yes, it is important to move. Movement is a fundamental homework assignment for most clients suffering from posture issues. Stand up, stretch, walk, run, do yoga, breathe. Move. Ultimately, though, I propose that we look at another meaning of the word movement: the social movement. A social movement is a type of group action. This happens when a group of individuals come together to create a larger change. We see it in communities when there is an unrest or dis-ease. We see it when there is political The Posture Movement How Movement and Posture Extend Beyond the Physical By Allison Denney