The Silent Language of Posture: Decoding Body Posture for Neurological Pathways to Posture Enhancement
It is no secret that Neuroscience has started to become part of the YOUTUBE podcast world and many Type A personalities have taken an interest to get that PERFORMANCE EDGE. Currently, this is the new golden egg for those performance junkies.
What I find as a former personal trainer and strength coach is the foundational appeal that applied neurology and neuroscience has in taking care of our health and making everything we have learned biomechanically actually work and stay.
Neuroscience research has uncovered fascinating connections between posture and brain function, showing us how our physical stance reflects the intricate workings of our neural networks.
According to studies published in prominent journals such as Neuroscience and Brain Structure and Function, the alignment of our bodies isn't merely a matter of biomechanical physicality; it's deeply intertwined with the functioning of our brains.
For instance, a study conducted by neuroscientists at the University of California, Berkeley, revealed that maintaining an upright posture can positively influence mood and self-esteem by modulating neural pathways associated with confidence and assertiveness.
Moreover, advances in neuro-imaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have enabled researchers to observe how changes in posture directly affect brain activity.
Posture has been a crucial focus in both the training and therapy industries, and for years, the industry has done an excellent job with its biomechanical knowledge. However, even coaches, personal trainers, and therapists continue to experience lingering unresolved aches and pains.
Current posture correction methods can be highly effective if we can get the right parts of the brain to function properly. The best part is, that applied neurology works for any age group and the brain responds no matter our age.
Changing posture, decreasing pain, and reclaiming our lives back from chronic pain is something we all can experience.
Here is what we will be going over:
1. The Silent Expression of Posture: Postural Control and Neurological Governance
- The Role of the Cerebellum
- Postural control, essential for balance and alignment, is primarily regulated by the brainstem and cerebellum.
2. Unveiling the Intricacies of Postural Neurology
- The Nervous System's Role in Posture
- Understanding the Pendulum Effect
3. How a Neuro Coach Approaches the Posture-Brain Connection
- Analyzing Caveman Posture from a Neurological Perspective
4. The Argument That Will Go On In Facebook Groups Forever: Is this A Posture or Brain Problem?
- Exploring the Relationship Between Posture and Brain Function
- Addressing PMRF Deficits and training.
5. Understanding Postural Abnormalities: Signs of PMRF and Cerebellar Issues
- Recognizing Red Flags for PMRF and Cerebellar Dysfunction
- Listing Common Posture Signs
6. Assessment, Testing, and Implementation of Neuro Drill Solutions
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The Silent Language of Posture: Decoding Body Posture for Neurological Pathways to Posture Enhancement
1. Postural Control and Neurological Governance
- For too long, we have underestimated the influence of posture on brain function and overlooked what our posture reveals about the specific areas of our brain that should be targeted for achieving optimal reflective posture during training sessions.
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Our body's alignment not only affects our movement patterns but also plays a crucial role in shaping our neurological processes, particularly in the brainstem, cerebellum, and the PMRF (Ponto Medullary Reticular Formation).
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Further investigations into the cerebellum's role in posture control have emphasized its crucial function not only in coordinating movements but also in regulating cognitive processes, including attention and learning.
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By observing clients' posture and movement patterns, we gain insights into their neurological health and overall well-being.
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A client exhibiting internal upper body and external lower body rotation may signal a cerebellar issue, while asymmetrical posture could indicate PMRF deficits.
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We will get more into this below with specifics for posture brain relationships and the video in the link below goes into detail on it all.
2. Unveiling the Intricacies of Postural Neurology
- If you are reading this on our site you know that posture is far more than just standing or sitting up straight; it's a dynamic interaction between muscles, bones, and the nervous system.
- Yes, the nervous system. While many health professionals may understand that at face value, there is a reason we drill this into our mentorship students at NLN.
- Postural control, the seemingly simple act of standing upright, is a feat of neurology that goes beyond tight and weak muscles.
- Imagine our bodies as inverted pendulums, constantly swaying in a delicate dance to maintain balance. This postural sway is the brain's intricate control over our body's alignment.
- Despite our perception of standing still, our bodies are in constant motion, finely tuned by the brainstem and cerebellum motor control centers. It's final say: Keep us from falling.
3. How A Neuro Coach Looks At The Posture-Brain Connection
- Wait a second, have you ever noticed that caveman-esque posture in the gym? Legs externally rotated, feet turned outwards, while the upper body remains internally rotated?
- Contrary to popular belief, this posture isn't normal for gym enthusiasts—it may signify underlying issues in brain function.
- During my biomechanical thought processing days, I would assess a client's posture. I might ask myself and tell them because they always needed to know why. (Lol).
- I told them for me and the truth is I did it because too many times my clients return with the same old problems.
- I might tell them why their shoulders may be internally rotated, what may be tight, what may be weak, what needs activation, what stretches to do first, what needs to be ‘turned on next, and so on.
- -----> Blah blah blah is all I used to hear myself say. It is so much more simple than I/we ever made it.
- The applied neurology perspective shifted my approach and let me tell you, cut down on my movement posture preparation time significantly.
Consider this: why do gymnasts and ballerinas naturally exhibit great posture? It's not just about daily movement preparation or strict coaching on posture. It's about how their brain processes and integrates movement patterns that sustain their reflexive posture, ensuring safety and efficiency in motion.
- Instead of solely focusing on biomechanics, I prioritized enhancing brain function in areas underperforming by learning and assessing what was going on above the neck.
- Learning to strengthen these neurological pathways first and then complemented by targeted postural exercises has changed the fundamental nature of a client’s posture.
4. The Argument That Will Go On In Facebook Groups Forever: Is this A Posture or Brain Problem?
- The question arises: which came first, the posture or the brain problem? Often, individuals with deficits in the PMRF struggle to maintain a neutral lifting position or perform sports movements optimally.
- In response, coaches and trainers may debate what came first because the industry often likes to assert its expertise with an 'I'm the smartest and you don't know squat' attitude.
- However, at Next Level Neuro, we understand that by adopting a brain-first perspective and enhancing the brain and nervous system, we improve our movement and stability in training with our brain-first approach.
- By addressing neurological deficits through targeted interventions—such as specific neuro drills to improve PMRF function and enhance their nervous system communication—we can provide clients with neuro drills to ensure their body recovers effectively between sets.
- This knowledge gives the clients a way to self-assess and train safely, regardless of their education level.
5. Postural Signs of PMRF and Cerebellum Issues
- Postural abnormalities can serve as red flags for underlying issues in the PMRF and cerebellum.
- Forward shoulders
- Rounded backs
- Internally rotated arms often indicate cerebellar dysfunction.
- While turned-out feet
- Collapsed arches
- and asymmetrical hips may point to PMRF deficits.
- Collapsed arches
- While turned-out feet
- By recognizing these signs, fitness professionals can tailor interventions to address specific neurological issues and improve overall posture and brain function.
For more information on which areas of the brain to train first, read How do I know which area of the brain to train.
6. Empowering Clients: Testing and Implementing Neuro Drill Solutions
- As health professionals, we must empower clients to manage their posture and brain health effectively. Through continuous assessment of our neuro drill selections, implementing postural interventions, and observing immediate results, clients can visibly and tangibly experience these changes right away.
- One of the key benefits of applied neurology is the minimal time commitment required for daily drills. Watch the FREE NEURO WORKSHOP video below to see how quickly you can perform these drills and witness the changes yourself.
- Training the PMRF involves exercises and techniques aimed at improving its function and addressing any deficits.
- Some approaches outlined below
- For further exploration and video examples watch our FREE case studies and watch our workshop video.
Neuro Drills For PMRF
1. Band Resistance Neuro Drill: Using resistance bands to challenge the stability and mobility of the affected side while performing mobility drills on the opposite side.
2. Complex Mobility Neuro Drills: Engaging in complex mobility exercises that involve dynamic movements of the limbs while maintaining stability on the affected side.
3. Vestibular Neuro Drills: Incorporating bouncing drills with the head neutral or tilted to the same side to stimulate the vestibular system and enhance PMRF activation.
4. Smell and Taste Neurology: Using smell and taste stimuli on the affected side to activate the PMRF and improve motor function.
5. Cranial Nerves: Utilizing oral stimulation, such as biting on one side or placing the tongue on the opposite cheek, to enhance PMRF activity and coordination.
These training methods aim to provide targeted stimulation to the PMRF, promoting better coordination, posture, and pain management. Regular practice of these exercises can lead to improvements in overall movement quality and function.
For further exploration into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and posture, delve into our FREE case studies and watch our enlightening workshop video
More articles to enhance your education:
How do I know which area of the brain to train?
The 4 best neuro drills for fundamental movements
The top 3 inputs that dictate your brain-body response to training.
The top 6 posture clues linked to your brain
Are we trialing the right area of the brain for posture?
Have we been training corrective exercise all wrong: A neurological perspective for fitness pros.
Biomechanical Training vs Neurological Training
The Big Lie About Training Posture You've Been Swallowing Whole - Part 1
The Big Lie About Training Posture You've Been Swallowing Whole - Part 2
