8 Pieces of Brocade - Wise Owl Gazes Backward

Analyzing the muscles, connective tissue and their interactions in the fourth exercise of the 8 Pieces of Brocade Qigong set. This movement is commonly known as "Wise Owl Gazes Backward" and involves rotation of the head while the arm are externally rotated and outstretched downward creating a stretch across the chest. This postures seems to increase the stretch across the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle in the neck while it actives to rotate the head. This analysis also illustrates the interplay of tension between the SCM and trapezius muscles during head rotation. In addition we explore the role connective tissue (fascia) connections play and show some real photographs of this connective tissue from the source: Functional Atlas of the Human Fascial System.
I'm experimenting with a new look too! It will help me combine my various interests (drawing, martial arts, exercise science)
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