Is your neck health as ‘Sound as a bell’?
Did you know that this saying was coined by Shakespeare? and 23 April is National Talke Like Shakespeare day!
What’s Shakespeare got to do with it?
Well, even the great English bard had something to say about health in his plays. The term “Sound as a bell” appears in several of his plays including “The Taming of the Shrew” and “The Comedy of Errors,” and is used to describe someone who is in good health or physically fit.
To celebrate Shakespeare day, we’re talking about neck health and care – why I hear thou ask? Well, as an avid reader I know all too well the side effects of reading that juicy new novel for far too long! If ye find thou neck’s aching thee or thou art struggling to move it from side to side, it may just be that ye haven’t put thy latest read down for a breather!
Maintaining neck health is crucial for overall well-being, especially considering how much strain our necks endure daily due to activities like working at a desk, reading, using electronic devices, or poor posture.
To help loosen up your neck and relieve any tightness, sore spots and aches, check out our top 5 tips for neck health below:
Practice Good Posture:
Sit and stand up straight, keeping your shoulders back and your head aligned with your spine.
Avoid slouching or craning your neck forward for extended periods, especially when using electronic devices.
Take Regular Breaks:
If you have a desk job or spend long periods sitting, take breaks to stretch and move around every hour.
Perform simple neck stretches and shoulder rolls to relieve tension and improve circulation.
Adjust Ergonomics:
Ensure your workspace is ergonomically optimized. Adjust your chair, desk, and computer monitor to promote a neutral neck position.
Use a supportive chair with proper lumbar support to maintain the natural curve of your spine.
Strengthen and Stretch:
Incorporate exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting your neck and shoulders, such as gentle neck stretches, chin tucks, and shoulder blade squeezes.
Yoga and Pilates can also help improve flexibility, posture, and core strength, which indirectly benefits neck health.
Be Mindful of Sleeping Position:
Choose a supportive pillow and mattress that align with the natural curve of your neck and spine.
Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as it can strain your neck. Instead, sleep on your back or side with proper head and neck support.
Additionally, if you experience chronic neck pain or discomfort, consult a registered chiropractor for personalized advice and treatment options. Taking proactive steps to care for your neck can prevent future issues and promote overall comfort and well-being.
If you’re struggling with neck issues or in pain or discomfort and would like to book a consultation at either our Bridgend or Porthcawl practice click here to book online or simply get in touch here to see how we can help.
Always be sure that your spinal health is taken care of by a registered chiropractor.