Rediscovering the Fundamentals of Human Movement
To truly understand how the body functions, one must observe its natural state and operate in accordance with it. As the adage goes, "Nature never breaks her own laws." But what does this mean for us? Consider the Sun, which follows a consistent pattern daily, or a tree that adheres to a specific life cycle. Seasons, regardless of location, follow a habitual order. Human beings, as part of nature, also operate under a natural charter.
If elements of nature, such as the Sun or seasons, deviated from their natural patterns, it would impact everything connected to them. Similarly, understanding and adhering to the natural functions of the human body is crucial for maintaining harmony and health.
Observing Natural Human Function
To comprehend how our bodies are designed to function, we need to look at how they operate in their most natural state. Our bodies are closest to this natural state at birth, during infancy. This period is when we strive to gain control over our new physical forms before modern lifestyles influence our movements.
Today's society, with its heavy reliance on technology, has disconnected us from nature. Our physical and sensory capacities have suffered as a result. Unlearning improper biomechanical patterns and relearning correct ones is essential for overall health.
The Importance of Fundamental Movements
Contemporary human movement often focuses on aesthetics, which can be detrimental to long-term physical and mental well-being. Instead, we should prioritize the fundamentals of movement, which our ancestors relied on for survival and which children naturally exhibit.
The term "fundamental" comes from the Latin "fundare," meaning "to found." It refers to the core principles on which something is based. In human movement, these fundamentals are determined by nature, which structures the operating procedures for all organic matter.
Due to modern lifestyles, there is a disconnect between ourselves and the natural order. To reconnect, we must regress to our most natural state and consciously progress from there. Infancy is when we were our most natural, learning to move and control our bodies.
Fundamental Movements
What are the fundamental movements a person must be capable of? These include:
Breathing: The most fundamental physical activity.
Maintaining Head and Spine Stability: Essential for posture and balance.
Sitting Upright: Critical for core strength.
Crawling: Develops coordination and strength.
Standing Up: The foundation of bipedal movement.
Walking: Basic locomotion.
Jogging and Running: Higher intensity locomotion.
Jumping: Explosive power and coordination.
Picking Up Objects: Functional strength and coordination.
Carrying Objects: Endurance and functional strength.
Throwing Objects: Coordination and power.
Climbing: Full-body strength and coordination.
Mastering these movements is essential for physical fitness. Advanced forms of movement in sports, martial arts, yoga, etc., require proficiency in these fundamentals.
The Starting Point: Breathing
Before mastering other fundamental movements, we must relearn the most fundamental of all physical activities: breathing. Proper breathing techniques are crucial for overall health and performance in all other movements.
References and Supporting Evidence
Nature's Laws: The consistency of natural patterns, such as the Sun's cycle and seasonal changes, highlights the importance of following natural laws. (Source: General principles of natural science).
Infant Development: Studies show that infants exhibit natural movement patterns that are foundational for later motor skills. (Source: Developmental psychology textbooks).
Modern Lifestyles and Health: Research indicates that sedentary lifestyles and excessive technology use negatively impact physical health. (Source: Public health studies).
Fundamental Movements: Biomechanics research supports the importance of basic movement patterns for overall fitness and injury prevention. (Source: Sports science literature).
By understanding and practicing these fundamental movements, we align ourselves with nature, promoting long-term health and well-being.