Introduction
In human movement, the concept of “archetype” refers to fundamental postures that arise from the intricate interplay of joints and muscles. As Phillip Beach articulates, “The opposite of movement is rest; one without the other is nonsensical.” This interdependence underscores the importance of understanding how we rest. The human body is not merely designed for movement; it thrives on a balance between movement and rest. Unfortunately, modern lifestyles often prioritise furniture like chairs and sofas, which can hinder our access to these essential archetypal resting postures.
Understanding Resting Postures
Resting postures are positions that our bodies naturally assume when given the opportunity. These postures, deeply rooted in our 30 million year + old evolutionary history, reflect the ways our ancestors rested on the ground. By engaging in these natural positions, we allow our bodies to decompress and realign, promoting optimal musculoskeletal health. Unlike the rigid, compressed state induced by sitting in chairs, archetypal resting postures encourage a more fluid and dynamic relationship with our bodies.
The Natural Resting State of the Spine
A crucial aspect of archetypal resting postures is the natural state of the spine. When we rest in flexed positions with traction—such as squatting or sitting cross-legged—we facilitate spinal decompression. This contrasts sharply with the flexion and compression experienced in conventional sitting. In these natural postures, the spine can elongate, relieving pressure on intervertebral discs and promoting better overall spinal health. By embracing these positions, we compliment our body’s design and support its inherent need for movement and rest.
The Importance of Micro-Movements
Micro-movements—small, subtle shifts in position—are vital for maintaining musculoskeletal and metabolic health. Our bodies are designed to adapt and adjust continuously, and these adjustments can significantly impact our well-being. Regularly changing positions can prevent stiffness, enhance circulation, and improve metabolic function. When we engage in micro-movements while resting on the floor, we stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage, counteracting the detrimental effects of prolonged static postures. Constantly changing or adjusting our positions on the floor to find comfort has a drastic effect on our non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT). Our NEAT is the second highest calorie expenditure below our base metabolic rate, accounting for 15-30% of our daily caloric burn, whereas exercise accounts for only 10%.
Floor Sitting and Blood Flow
Sitting on the floor is one of the most effective ways to encourage healthy blood flow and drainage. In contrast to sitting in chairs, floor sitting engages a wider range of muscles and promotes a more dynamic posture. This position allows for greater mobility and muscle activation in the hips and pelvis, facilitating better circulation throughout the body. Additionally, floor sitting can help activate the core muscles, providing stability and support while enhancing proprioceptive awareness.
The Relationship Between Work and Rest
ur bodies are designed to live in a symbiotic relationship between work and rest. Engaging in archetypal resting postures allows us to recover and rejuvenate, preparing us for the demands of movement and activity. By reclaiming these natural postures, we can foster a more balanced lifestyle that honours our evolutionary heritage. This balance is essential not only for physical health but also for mental and emotional well-being.
Conclusion
Reclaiming archetypal resting postures is essential for maintaining optimal joint health and function. As Phillip Beach reminds us, losing access to these postures is a biomechanical peril. By embracing our natural resting positions, we can combat the negative consequences of modern sedentary lifestyles and promote a healthier, more dynamic relationship with our bodies. In doing so, we recognize and honour our evolutionary past and pave the way for a more balanced and fulfilling life.
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