Tip Tuesday: A Healthy Spine

"You're only as young as your spine is flexible." This is quoted by Joseph Pilates and other gurus throughout the years. Recently I watched my mom go through having a herniated disk and watching something like that really makes me want to ensure I have good spinal health. Your spine connects with many other crucial bones, muscles, nerves, and ligaments so keeping a healthy foundation can prevent injury later and keep you moving well.

One of the ways to keep your spine healthy and to keep your back feeling good is to do these few stretches daily. Once you get into a habit your body will really crave these stretches at the end of the day. Remember to treat your spine with the utmost care. 

1. Cat/cow

 Try your best to synchronize your breath with movement here.

2. Lying spinal twist. 

You may do this with both knees bent or as pictured above. Try to direct your inhalation to you lower back while doing this.

3. Cobra 

Start by just pushing yourself up gradually and you may work up to however far is feels good to stretch.

These are just a few stretches to get you started to a great feeling spine. As always be gentle at first, move slowly, and remember to breathe.