Today hosts Tiffany and Rachel talk about the all-too-common complaint of neck pain and its hidden contributors.

We discuss local sources of neck tension, explain the importance of the thoracic spine and shoulder complex, and dive into more subtle influences like posture, the nervous system, and even breath mechanics.

Listen in to learn a well-rounded approach for generalized neck pain relief.

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Show Notes:

• Myriad potential reasons for generalized neck issues [00:47]
• A good starting place: stretches or strengthening for the neck itself [2:36]
• Differentiate between neighboring muscles in neck tension [3:44]
• Mixed signals around the cue “shoulders back and down” [6:39]
• Shoulder mechanics as a solution for neck pain [11:06]
• Posture and neck pain [12:53]
• More subtle influences on neck pain: stress, living in the future [15:37]
• MFR favorites for stress relief [18:37]
• Addressing the posterior shoulder and chest opening [21:56]
• Core and hip stability as a hidden influence on the neck [23:54]
• The place for targeted neck strengthening work [26:46
• The role of thoracic mobility, respiratory function, and the jaw [30:55]
• Summing up: Start gently and work indirectly [33:46]
• Relevant Yoga Medicine Online classes [39:19]
• Relevant Yoga Medicine Teacher Training options [41:14]

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Links Mentioned:

• Watch this episode on YouTube
• Yoga Medicine® Teacher Trainings:
  • Spine Anatomy, Dysfunction & Application
  • Shoulder Anatomy, Dysfunction & Application
  • Myofascial Release
  • Nervous System & Restorative
  • Pranayama
• Yoga Medicine® Online Classes mentioned:
  • Neck Fix
  • Regulate Neck Pain
  • Neck Resilience, Isometrics & Headstand
  • Fast-Track to Zen
  • Neck, Shoulder & Upper-Back Favorites
  • Mobilize Your Shoulders, Release Your Neck
  • Spine Series 3: Head & Neck Awareness

You can learn more about this episode, and see the full show notes at YogaMedicine.com/podcast-120.

And you can find out more about insider tips, online classes or information on our teacher trainings at YogaMedicine.com.

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