Understand the Causes of Your Pain
PODCAST EPISODE COMING SOON
A few days ago, I listened to an interview with Professor Stuart McGill by Kelly Starrett and his wife on their podcast, The Ready State. Professor McGill and Dr. Starrett are significant influences in my foundational movement philosophies and preparation methods for the body.
Professor McGill, a retired professor emeritus from the University of Toronto, dedicated most of his career to investigating causes of lower back pain. His key works include "Low Back Disorders," "Back Mechanic," and "The Gift of Injury."
His research is particularly relevant because it offers deep insights into lower back conditions, a common issue threatening our movement freedom. His work, especially in the context of human movement and health, extends beyond those experiencing back pain, offering valuable rehabilitation methods and insights into movement preparation.
Central to our movement is the spine, both structurally and dynamically. Optimizing spinal health benefits our overall movement, making it a critical starting point in our movement journey. McGill’s work underscores the importance of stabilizing and controlling the spine in its neutral position, a fundamental aspect of movement.
In my experience, breaking down complex movements into simpler components and progressively refining these basics greatly enhances our ability to execute complex movements. Mastery in movement comes from understanding and honing these foundational elements.
McGill's methods focus on identifying behaviors and movements that cause pain, empowering individuals to modify their actions to alleviate pain. This approach aligns with the philosophy of intuitive health, emphasizing the body's intrinsic ability to guide us toward health.
In a broader context, health extends far beyond the absence of disease. It encompasses vitality and an understanding of our body's signals. By tapping into our individual body-mind system, we can reach higher states of health and wellness.
This philosophy of understanding and modifying the causes of our conditions rather than seeking external solutions is crucial. We hold the power to change our situations by acknowledging and altering our actions.
Finally, I wanted to link this discussion to Dr. Mark Hyman's recent insights on his podcast, where he emphasizes the importance of connecting our actions, such as diet and movement, to our overall health and feelings. Understanding these connections is key to improving our well-being.
In conclusion, understanding the relationship between our actions and health is fundamental. I encourage sharing this message to help others and invite you to subscribe for more valuable insights. Until next time, I wish you wellness.