Nicky Read (NR): When postural muscles are used in the correct posture, the joints, ligaments and bones are aligned correctly. When the spine is straight and working optimally, there is better blood circulation and you can breathe properly. Breathing properly increases oxygen to your brain, helping with concentration.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Practising Good Posture? Photo Gallery
What is the psoas muscle? NR: The psoas is the only ‘muscle’ to connect the spine to the legs. If you have bad posture, a weak or tight psoas muscle could explain your low back, hip, ankle or knee pain. This muscle is also known as your fight or flight muscle. This major hip flexor is ‘fired up’ or engaged, when lifting your legs when you walk, run, cycle, or swim. By looking after it, physically, you have a bigger range of movement and feel more relaxed.
How can Pilates benefit those who lead busy lifestyles? NR: Pilates focuses on your breathing, which helps activate your parasympathetic system. This system regulates and slows your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate to restore physical balance within your body, reducing cortisol (stress hormone) levels to restore a state of mental peace and well-being.
