Spinal Hygiene

Spinal Hygiene is designed to enhance structural and neurological integration, prevent vertebral subluxations, improve spinal flexibility, posture, and core strength. Quality of life research has demonstrated that spinal hygiene is effective for health promotion. These simple, cost-free techniques can be practiced in diverse locations and cultures. Recently, Tommy Thompson, the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services has applauded Life University's Spinal Hygiene program calling it an "important and laudable service".

Click here for Spinal and Neurological Health Promotion

The Vital Relationship Between the Spinal Column and Nervous System

Focal Points for Performing the Exercises

User Agreement

Activity Calendar / PAR-Q
Before starting any physical activity program, we recommend completing the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire, or PAR-Q, developed by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology.

An interactive Activity Calendar and a Weekly Journal are available for you to download and save. (The Activity Calendar is also available in pdf format for printing.)

The Exercises

Straighten Up America

• PowerPoint format (if you cannot view this file, click here to download the free PowerPoint Viewer.)
• PDF format
• Kids Printable Cartoon Version
• International Version

2 Minute Stress Busters

The Spinal Warm-up:

• Spine Tuning
• Trap Opener
• The Humming Bird

Seated Neck Stretches:

• Sweet Release Neck Stretches

Spinal Stretches:

• The Pointer
• “On Your Mark” Pose aka The Fencer
• The Jack-Knife/Single Knee Tuck
• The Cat
• Just Hangin'
• Side-Lying Curl
• The Prayer Position

Spinal Strengthening / The Superman Series:

• Superman Take-off
• Superman Landing
• Superman in Turbulence
• Sky Diver
  

Abdominal Toning and Strengthening Exercises:

• Partial Sit-ups
• Rump Crunches
• Cross Crawl Crunches
• Horizontal Bicycle

Ergonomics

• The 7 Rules for Proper Lifting

Contact Dr. Ron Kirk with questions or for more information.