Crick Fixes

We may all experience stiffness and tightness within our necks and shoulders at some point in our lives.  The upper back can begin to curve and the head can protrude forwards as the muscles around the shoulders and neck become shortened in length.  The average head weighs 12 to 15 pounds and when this weight sits forward of the central line of the spine, the muscles of the neck and shoulders have to work very hard to hold the head up against the pull of gravity. This can result in a variety of symptoms such as headaches or migraines as the supply of blood to the head is reduced due to spasms in the neck and shoulders.

In the classes this week we will be looking at how to improve structural imbalances in the neck and shoulders by working on extending the upper back, opening the chest, drawing the shoulders down the back and realigning the position of the head.  Many of us are so accustomed to tension in our necks and shoulders that we need to relearn the natural process of letting go.  We will be utilising the breath during postures to help release tightness from within the neck and shoulder muscles creating freedom from tension.