Victoria’s Read

Almost everyone, has a desire to improve their life. Many of our aches, pains and orthopedic problems are a result of poor core strength, stabilization and poor core activation.

What is our core? Simply it is the muscles, ligaments and tendons that wrap around our abdomen from our ribcage to our pelvis. This structure is responsible for  allowing us to be the dynamic people we are.

The problem is our modern lifestyle has contributed to a chronic weakness in the core. It’s not uncommon to see an individual whose Transverse Abdominals rarely activate when they should or they activate very poorly. Place your hands on your waist with fingers pointing towards your belly-button. That is the location and direction of these muscles.

The other key muscle group that is chronically weak is the pelvic floor. This group of muscles stretches from your tail-bone to the front of your pelvis.  There are many factors in life that may affect your core strength. Some of these include child birth, abdominal surgeries like a C-section, prolonged sitting in work or your lifestyle. All of your core muscles must be strong and activate correctly of optimum health and wellness.

The good news is it’s never too late to return to balance. One of the best all around core strengtheners that’s suitable for every body is yoga. Yoga is thousands of years old and has evolved into one of the most efficient, inclusive systems of wellness. It’s not uncommon to see those who do yoga regularly overcome backache, digestive problems, constipation, breathing problems, stiff joints, posture problems, headaches and many other problems. We are dynamic beings and are meant to move.

Another simple step to a stronger core is to be conscious about activating your core in day to day activities and re-train it to work automatically. To begin, sit tall with your shoulders, back and above your hips. Place one hand in the small of your back and notice the gentle curve there. Place the other hand on your tummy just below your belly button. Gently tighten up your tummy underneath your hand and gently press your back slightly into the other hand. This is engaging your transverse abdominals. Now shift your attention to engaging your pelvic floor. You do this by tightening like you are holding back gas or the urge to urinate. Practice this seated or standing. Now that you are aware of what to engage, you can begin to consciously engage your core.

Enjoy life, stay well, stay strong… you deserve it.

©Darren Renaud, Natural Health Practitioner. Ohana Wellness Centre