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Easing Neck Pain Through Clinical Somatic Movement And Pandiculation

  • Aug 28, 2024
  • 3 min read

Heidi Hadley is a Certified Clinical Somatic Educator & Somatic Movement teacher. She started her career in mainstream medicine in the field of Neurophysiology. In 2001, Heidi started her private clinical practice in health, wellbeing & movement.

Executive Contributor Heidi Hadley

Neck pain is a common issue that many people face, often stemming from the repetitive actions and habitual postures of daily life. One of the key contributors to this discomfort is the buildup of rigidity within the ribs, which can severely impact the body's ability to move efficiently and absorb shock. Fortunately, clinical somatic movement and pandiculation offer a powerful solution to release this rigidity and ease neck pain.


Photo of a woman at the office sitting in front of laptop having neck pain

Click here to watch my YouTube video on neck and jaw tension/pain.


The connection between rib rigidity and neck pain

The rib cage plays a crucial role in our body's overall movement and function. When the ribs become rigid due to repetitive movements, stress, or poor posture, they restrict the natural mobility of the spine and thoracic area. This rigidity not only limits efficient movement but also compromises breathing patterns, leading to increased tension in the neck and shoulders.


The spine's ability to absorb shock and distribute forces evenly throughout the body is also hindered when the ribs are rigid. This places additional strain on the neck, as it compensates for the lack of movement and flexibility in the thoracic region. Over time, this can lead to chronic neck pain and discomfort.


Skull illustration comparing to a shock absorber

How releasing rib rigidity can ease neck tension

My approach to Clinical Somatic movement emphasizes the importance of releasing rigidity within the ribs to restore natural movement patterns and ease neck tension. Through a series of gentle, mindful movements known as pandiculation, I guide people to actively contract their muscles, slowly release and lengthen, and rest. This reprograms the nervous system for more efficient movement.


By addressing the underlying cause of neck pain—rigid ribs and restricted breathing—this approach offers a holistic and sustainable solution. As the rib cage regains its flexibility and the spine's shock absorbency is restored, the neck is relieved from compensatory strain, leading to a significant reduction in pain and tension.


Click here to watch my YouTube video on releasing rib rigidity.


The benefits of total somatics' approach to releasing rib rigidity

I have an online membership entitled, Total Somatics. It is designed to provide lasting relief from neck pain (as well as other areas of pain) by targeting the root causes of tension and rigidity. Here are some of the key benefits of this approach:


  • Improved breathing: By releasing tension in the rib cage, people experience deeper, more efficient breathing, which contributes to overall relaxation and reduced neck tension.

  • Enhanced mobility: Restoring flexibility to the ribs allows for greater spinal mobility, reducing the strain on the neck and promoting more fluid, pain-free movement.

  • Pain relief: Through the process of pandiculation, people can release chronic muscle tension and retrain their bodies for natural, pain-free movement.

  • Holistic approach: Unlike conventional treatments that focus solely on the neck, Total Somatics addresses the entire body, ensuring a comprehensive approach to pain relief and well-being.


Explore my 4-part workshop series on reducing rib rigidity

To help individuals release rib rigidity and ease neck pain, I have created a 4-part workshop series through Total Somatics. This series provides step-by-step guidance on how to use Clinical Somatic Movement and Pandiculation to restore mobility, improve breathing, and reduce pain. Each session is designed to empower you with the tools and knowledge needed to take control of your health and well-being.


Human showing rib cage and spine

Make it happen today

If you're ready to relieve your neck pain and regain your body's natural movement, join me in my 4-part workshop series on releasing rib rigidity. Click here to visit the Total Somatics Online shop today to learn more and take the first step towards a pain-free life. Don’t let neck pain control your life—empower yourself with the knowledge and techniques to feel better, move better, and live better.


Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info!

Heidi Hadley, Certified Clinical Somatic Educator

Heidi Hadley is a Certified Clinical Somatic Educator & Somatic Movement teacher. She started her career in mainstream medicine in the field of Neurophysiology. In 2001, Heidi started her private clinical practice in health, wellbeing & movement. She is the founder & creator of Total Somatics International®, an online membership designed to reduce pain, improve posture, increase mobility, develop mindfulness and allow you to resume or continue with the activities you love to do. She is the presenter of the podcast, Somatic Movement & Mindset. Delving into the fields of neuroscience, pain, mindset, mindfulness, habits and how to use your brain and body to create lasting healthy changes.

 
 

This article is published in collaboration with Brainz Magazine’s network of global experts, carefully selected to share real, valuable insights.

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