It’s easy to judge ourselves for what we didn’t do the past year.

Lots of folks are talking about how much weight they’ve gained during the pandemic. It’s true that staying at home disrupted our usual exercise routines and cut off access to many of the practices we may have depended on for self-care. I’ve gained weight too over the past year, but instead of jumping on a diet, I’m turning first to regular exercise that is centered on moving my spine.

Over the years, I’ve learned, and relearned, that two of the most important practices I can have are mindful breathing and moving my spine.  

Before the pandemic, twice a week, I went to Dr. Liz Dobbins, a doctor of chiropractic medicine who would work with my spine to release stress and tension stored in my spine and body. I did this (Network Spinal Analysis) for about two years starting at the end of 2017. 

(According to a report from U.C. Irvine’s Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Network Spinal Analysis is a system of assessing and contributing to spinal and neural integrity, as well as health and wellness. Practitioners employ gentle force applications to the spine assisting the body’s self-regulation of the tension in the neurological system. The body naturally develops strategies for dissipation of stored tension/energy, thus enhancing self-regulation of tension and spinal interference. Download the findings here.)

I’d lay on a table and Dr. Liz would lightly touch my spine, and put me in various positions, while encouraging me to breathe in, and breathe out, consciously feeling the energy move through my body. It sounds woo woo when I say it, but I know that it made a difference to my energy levels and my attitude. After all, the spine houses the spinal cord, which is part of our central nervous system.

The first time that I lay on that table, I was SO ANGRY about the way that things were going at work and when she finished with me – just 20 minutes or so, I felt lighter, more open, and more joyful. It was truly amazing. 

Although I haven’t been to Dr. Liz in a year (though now that I’m vaccinated, I’ll be going soon!), a couple months ago, I restarted my exercise program called Essentrics, created by Miranda Esmonde-White.

Every morning, I get up and do bends, stretches and reaches to strengthen my spine, improve my posture and exercise every muscle in my body. (I used to dance and the exercises remind me of the dance movements I did in my modern and ballet classes.) Within just a few weeks of doing Essentrics every morning,

I can feel myself sitting up straighter, enjoying greater flexibility and strength in my core. The movements feel delicious to do. 

If you’re curious about Essentrics you can learn more about it through this Aging Backwards video featuring Miranda Esmonde-White and people of various ages who practice Essentrics. Scroll through to 22:34 to see detail about the importance of a flexible spine to good posture and health.

Even the simplest body movements can change our mood, generate energy and help us get unstuck. What can you do to move your body today?