A healthy spine is dependent on strong core abdominal muscles. Research has shown that most spine problems are preventable even though so many people seem to suffer with such ailments. There are changes you can make in your habits that will improve your chances of maintaining a healthy spine.
Instructions
1. Eat properly. Nutrition is the number one preventative steps you can take to maintain a healthy spine. Good nutrition keeps you from becoming overweight. Too much body weight puts stress on the spine. Empty calories do not support nerves, organs and muscles. All of these body parts support a healthy spine.
2. Breath. Posture muscles are the same ones you use to breath. Therefore, breathing exercises will strengthen your spine. Fill your lungs completely, through the nose. Hold the breath for a count of 5 to 10. Release the breath through the mouth.
3. Drink water. Because our bodies are comprised of 70% water, becoming dehydrated can stiffen our spine rather than keeping it pliable. You should drink 6 to 8 cups of water per day to maintain body hydration.
4. Exercise. Strengthening your abdominal muscles will hold your back straight and strong. Weak muscles in these areas allow back injuries to occur more easily.
5. Monitor twisting motions. Be aware of your spine’s mechanics. Sudden or unnatural turns and twists can cause injury.
6. Stretch. Sitting at the computer or any job tends to compress the discs in the spine. It’s important to stand and stretch intermittently in order to avoid eventual disc problems.
Tags: healthy spine, abdominal muscles, muscles these, your spine