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HOW
HEALTH BRIDGES WORK
The unique curved design of Health Bridges rotates
and lifts the shoulders, and stretches back muscles and ligaments. A
slot up the middle of the bridges accommodates the spinal column and
eliminates pressure on this area, distributing body weight evenly across
the muscles of the back and providing beneficial pressure against
critical areas along the spinal column.
The overall result is improved posture and
flexibility. This can help to enhance confidence and self-esteem.
IMPORTANT: Always start with Bridge #1, even
if you do not have back problems or your body is already reasonably
flexible.
Health
Bridges introduce a new physical alignment to your body's systems of
nerve, muscle and bone, and it is important that you ease into this new
position gradually to give your body time to adjust. Bridge #1 is the
bridge with the least curvature. To use the Bridge #1, place it curved
side up on the floor ( preferably on a non slip surface ). Then sit on
the floor with your back to the bridge, buttocks touching the bridge
where the centre slot is lowest, lower yourself carefully back over the
bridge, making sure the spinal column falls into the centre slot. Unless
you feel considerable discomfort, hold this position for 10 minutes. To
get up after using the bridge, simply roll to the left or right and lay
on your stomach for a minute, then get up on your knees and stand up.
Use Bridge #1, as previously described, twice a day;
10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes at night.
That's all there is to it!
Because the body often resists change, some initial
discomfort may be felt, though this should pass as flexibility
increases. If the Bridge is too firm, the bolster accessory can be used
as a beginner bridge. Stuff the bolster sleeve with a towel and place it
on the floor. Lay back over the Bolster, placing one end under the back
of the head and the rest of the Bolster aligned with, and directly
underneath, the spine. This will begin preparing your back for the use
of Bridge #1. ( The Bridge isn't padded for a very good reason; such
padding would diminish the effectiveness of Health Bridges).
Generally,
after three to four weeks of use, you may begin to feel and see
noticeable results. Progress is measured by the ability to arch with
ease; that is, to slip back into the Health Bridges position fluidly and
without discomfort. When you are able to arch with ease, it may be time
to move on to Bridge #2. But don't rush it: don't move to Bridge #2
until you are totally comfortable using Bridge #1. To do otherwise, or
go too far too fast, will compromise the desired effects. Health Bridges
will be even more effective if you focus on the maintenance of good
posture throughout the day.
Bridge #2 further improves the range of movements
and benefits achieved through Bridge #1. Use it exactly the same way; at
the same time of day, for the same amount of time. When you can arch
with ease on the second bridge you may be ready for Bridge #3. NOTE:
Some people may not wish to, or be able to, proceed to Bridge #3. If in
doubt, check with a Chiropractor, Physiotherapist, Medical Doctor or
other Health Care Professional.
Use
Bridge #3 in exactly the same way you use Bridges #1 and #2. This last
step will continue to enhance any benefits you may have realized thus
far. Furthermore, the dynamics of the increased curvature of Bridge #3
will cause a traction or lift of the lumbar spine and a reduction of
pressure on lumbar discs.
Bridge #3 will help in sustaining, over the long
term, the positive changes achieved through use of the previous two
bridges.
NOTE: If you do not use the Bridge for a few days
you may find that you have to go back to the previous level for a
session to get your flexibility back. Keep all levels of Bridges handy
for this reason.
Exclusively endorsed by the Canadian Chiropractic
Association
For additional information or to get answers to specific questions,
contact SagoMED. |