22nd September 2023
Newsletter

We are pleased to announce we will be starting to open on WEEKENDS

to begin with we will be offering

 

SOFT TISSUE MASSAGE THERAPY

Mikayla offer's WEEKEND appointments at Harris Mind & Body (HMB) for soft tissue massage therapy to athletes (pre and post event) and people suffering from chronic and everyday aches and pains.

 

Mikayla will use a variety of hands-on techniques to aid in recovery and assist in maintaining range of motion.


Techniques include:
• myofascial release
• deep friction
• trigger point therapy
• muscle energy techniques
• soft tissue release

 

Please give us a call to find out more!

 

01635 44882

How to look after your back this weekend!

Taking care of your back is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

 

Here are five ways you can look after your back this weekend:

 

1. **Stretch and Exercise**

 

Engage in gentle stretching and back-strengthening exercises.

 

Pilates, and specific back exercises can help improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles that support your spine.

 

Dedicate some time to these activities over the weekend to keep your back in good shape.

 

Check out our online Pilates videos

 

2. **Maintain Good Posture**

 

Be conscious of your posture, whether you're sitting at your desk, watching TV, or standing in line.

 

Keep your spine aligned, shoulders relaxed, and avoid slouching. If you're working from home, ensure your workspace is ergonomically designed to support good posture.

 

3. **Stay Active**

 

Incorporate physical activity into your weekend plans. Go for a walk, hike, bike ride, or engage in other low-impact activities that keep you moving.

 

Regular physical activity helps keep your back muscles strong and improves circulation, reducing the risk of back pain.

 

4. **Proper Lifting Techniques**

 

If you need to lift heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques. Bend at your hips and knees, not your waist, and keep the object close to your body.

 

Avoid twisting while lifting, as this can strain your back. Enlist help when necessary.

 

5. **Relax and Destress**

 

Stress and tension can contribute to back pain. Take time to relax and unwind over the weekend. Consider activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or even a massage to release muscle tension and reduce stress.

 

Remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular sleep, also plays a crucial role in overall back health.

 

If you have chronic back pain or experience severe acute discomfort, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

 

Our team of Physio's are here to help Monday to Friday's.

Find out more about how Physio's can help with back pain - click here

Some gentle exercises to try at home

 

If one of these exercises is not suitable for you then please either miss it it or modify it to best suit you.

 

You can also ask your Physio or Pilates Teacher for more information on how to tailor these exercises just for you.

Lay on your back and hug one leg in - pause here and take a few deep breaths, then alternate sides (your other leg can be straight or a little bent - listen to your body to know what is best for you). The focus of this exercise is a gentle release through your hips and lower back.

Knee Sway. Take your arms wide. Feet and knees together. Allow both legs to 'sway' to the right then the left. Keep the side of your feet together and both shoulders in contact with the floor. The focus of this exercise is a gentle spine twist.

Sit up, bring the soles of the feet together. Hold onto your feet or lower legs. OR try sitting up against a wall to make it a little easier. Focus - inner thigh stretch and gentle release through the hips.

Try this spine extension stretch. Please don't feel you have to come up any higher than feels right for you. Listen to your body. Try starting with your hands wider than your shoulders and in front of your head for a more gentle spine curve. Play around with the start position your hands to find the right movement/degree of curve for you. Focus - to counter movements from the week such as working at a computer, knitting, reading etc.

Come into a child's pose position. Try to get your bottom to connect with the heels of your feet. You can put a pillow or even a couple of pillows under your head for comfort. Taking the knees wider can also help.Focus - a lovely lower back release. Take a moment to enjoy a few deep breathes in and out here.

Try a cat stretch - in a four point kneeling position, knees under your hips, hands under your shoulders. Concentrate on sliding your tailbone under, then let the rest of your spine gentle follow, lower your gaze and release through the neck. Return to a neutral position and repeat a few times. Focus - great for building some weight bearing strength and mobilising the lower back.

Front of thigh stretch. In a standing position. You can use a wall for balance support if required. Reach for your left foot. Then look ahead. If you can keep the legs narrow. The repeat on the other side. You want to feel the stretch in the belly of the muscle - the middle of the thigh muscle. Focus - opening the front of the hip and great counter move to any long periods of sitting.

Meet Buster -

the new HMB mascot!

 

We will try to give you an update on Buster's journey at HMB every Friday.

 

Just a little fun, but please do try to find him at your next visit he will be somewhere in the clinic!

 
Buster Video!

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BUSTER FRIDAY

Some Friday fun - follow Buster's story

The new HMB mascot!

Click here - video 1

Click here - video 2

 

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Book a Pilates Class
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Harris Mind & Body (HMB)
01635 44882

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