My Dear Spine

“Look well to the spine for the cause of disease.”—Hippocrates

What are we in recovery, without our support systems? We learned through bitter trial and error that handling our challenges alone could be a perilous choice. Loneliness can dog us into risk. A compassionate group of friends can maintain and comfort us when we struggle. Without a good support network, we can “lack the spine” to overcome our obstacles. With a good set of friends, we can have the backbone to face any adversity with confidence and resolve.

Now friendship, of course, is a two-way street. Reciprocity is a must. We give to be given to, in a spirit of natural kindness. And so it is with our once-in-a-lifetime bodies. Care for our body, that it cares for us. Which brings us to our all-important spinal column—our literal support system for carrying us through our world. For just as friendship taken for granted can become friendship lost, so a disregard for our spine can lead a cascade of issues. A cared-for spine will return the favor with a calmer nervous system, greater vigor and reduced discomfort. Let’s love our spine so it may love us back…

Here’s a fun, simple movement to release and enliven our spine for today:

Stand with knees slightly bent and the arms at your sides. Swing your arms round to the left side, turning your waist in the same direction, while sinking your weight into your right leg. Reverse and repeat to the other side in a fluid, super-relaxed manner. Breathe softly. Continue for twenty to thirty reps each side. Have a hint of a smile on your face.

It feels great to have reconnected with my spine today—so we can heal ourselves together.