Esalen # 4 Bridging the Cardinal Lines for Function ~ September 21, 2021

Lesson 4 of the Esalen Series uses a "bottom-up" approach to explore the dysfunctional relationship between the upper (C1-C2) and lower (C3-C7) neck connections. Learning how to use the cardinal line of the arm, aka, the "arm-lollipop," one can restore the proportional flexibility between these two cervical levels by re-establishing lost clavicular motion. The clavicle is the communication bridge between the cardinal line of the arm and the vertical cardinal line. The return of clavicular action, especially at the SC joint, signals the somatic nervous system to release lower cervical spine dysfunctional movement patterns because they are no longer needed.

Using the self-care strategy of "raising the floor" to multiple levels allows the "arm-lollipop" and shoulder girdle to move through a smooth, easy, and painless arc of motion. Manipulating the environment to enhance joint safety and eliminating muscular strain allows the nervous system to make necessary adjustments in muscle tension, restoring the lower cervical spine's potential for rotation and side-bending, impacting several activities of daily living that require the balance of aligning the head over a supportive base: climbing, walking, turning, and driving.

The Esalen Series ~ Fundraiser for Integrative Learning Center

This video is one of 15 Awareness Through Movement Lessons based on Dr. Feldenkrais' 1972 Esalen written transcripts. Using the original lessons as a guide, Carol Montgomery uses her language and application of functional movement patterns to discover perhaps the underlying question, "what knowledge was Dr. Feldenkrias trying to impart that will help us move and live a better life?" It has to be more than just "bending, extending, turning, or rolling," right? How could we all apply these great lessons to our present life?