I just read the new scientific research on sitting and it makes you want to kneel!
Last week Marc Hamilton, professor of Health and Human Performance at the University of Houston, released his important research on the soleus pushup. I guess you never heard of that!
“The soleus muscle in the calf, though only 1% of your body weight, can do big things to improve the metabolic health in the rest of your body if activated correctly. “
The exercise is described is described in the slide deck which you can download.
“The aim is to simultaneously shorten the calf muscle while the soleus is naturally activated by its motor neurons,”
Professor Hamilton calls it the “most important study” ever completed at the University of Houston. The discovery could solve a variety of health problems caused by our modern-day tendency to remain inactive for long periods.
What I found complementary to this is the research from that David Raichlen, a professor of biological sciences. He says that kneeling or squatting is better than sitting on a chair. Something I did a lot of as a monk (links in comments).
I like how science sometimes confirms and expands these ancient ways. I think we each have the same access to this wisdom, when we learn to listen to our body/mind, informed through science and a splash of intuitive wisdom.
Yesterday I supported one of clients with listening to their body/mind in a remote walk and talk session. It is the first time they had experienced this and there was some fear. I asked them if they would be okay to just be aware of their feet. They replied “yes” and the fear melted into love and safety.
I’ve always enjoyed walking meditation where you just notice one foot after another touching the ground and being supported by our wonderful planet.
May you have a moment in the day where you can experience the fullness of your body and mind, in a safe and kind way. And if you cannot do that may you find the support you need to do that.
