2.  Segmental stiffness

Intervertebral discs cushion and support the spine. Happy discs are plump and hydrated. They gradually compress and lose water under the effects of gravity, poor posture and from inactivity (e.g. sitting for long periods). Of course, being chronically dehydrated by not drinking enough water will have the same effect leading to segmental stiffness and back pain.

So give your discs a well deserved drink:

*Drink water. The recommended daily intake is 1.5-2.5 litres

*Move. The Back Happy programme shows you how to move the spine through all its natural planes of motion. This opens and decompress squashed intervertebral discs allowing them to rehydrate by drawing fluid that has seeped out back into the discs. This is especially true in the lower back.

*Relax. Lying down in relaxation decompresses the discs and resets the spine. Did you know that you are about 1 cm taller after a good night’s sleep?

3. Forward and backward bending

Forward and backward bends, when alternated, are the most efficient way to nourish and heal intervertebral discs.

Backward bending yoga postures (unless contraindicated) commonly correct any distortion or bulging in the intervertebral discs and can often ease related symptoms of nerve impingement, such as sciatica.

A daily practice of even 5-10 minutes goes a long way to healing the back. The Back Happy Programme shows you how to develop a fun, pick and mix home practice with handouts and videos to guide you.

4. Core stability training

Deep postural (core) muscles stabilise and support the body, keeping your natural spinal curves and a healthy alignment. If these are working inefficiently then the important mobility muscles take over. They become tense, shorten and cause misalignment and perpetuating back problems.

Core stability is naturally increased when we practice flowing yoga postures with emphasis on spinal control, mobility and core awareness.

5. Mobility of nervous tissue

Our nervous system consists of the brain, spinal cord and the nerves that run into all parts of the body, all the way to the tips of our toes and fingers. When we move, our spinal cord and nerves are meant to slide and glide.

If you do not move your body enough, immobility can cause restriction in the nervous tissue (neural tension) which in turn can cause pain or uncomfortable sensations. Back health is dependent upon neural mobility.

Yoga postures in this Programme help to mobilise the nerves and keep them healthy.

6. Nervous system reset

Mindful movement, breath work and relaxation all help the body to destress and release tension that may be causing back pain. By focusing the mind inward, the nervous system resets and the body receives messages that it is safe and secure. The body can then relax and achieve a greater sense of wellbeing and stillness.

This improves our ability to deal with the symptoms and causes of back pain.

7. Healing from the inside out

Western medicine is beginning to realise the impact that emotions and mental states can have on back pain. The Back Happy Programme engages all layers of our experience:

*Physical

*Mental

*Emotional

*Energetic

*Connection

Breath work, positive affirmations and visualisations create positive mental and emotional states.

By taking a more holistic approach to back pain, we activate the energy in our body, balance our emotions, positively transform our thoughts and create stillness helping to heal from the inside out.

To find out how the Back Happy Programme can help you, please message me today.