Somatic Stability—Building Core Muscle Strength and Bone Density
James Knight 4-21-2024
After age 30, the average person’s muscle mass decreases approximately 3–8% per decade, and this rate of decline is even higher after the age of 60. Muscle weakness contributes to fatigue, lack of coordination, and reduced activity tolerance. After age 50, bone mass and bone density decrease as well. Women can lose up to 20% of their bone density within 5 to 7 years following menopause. With weak muscles and bones, it’s no wonder there is such a high incidence of falls and broken bones as we age.
A common question people ask is what form of exercise to stay fit would complement Somatics and beat what Thomas Hanna referred to as the myth of aging. This question is especially relevant for people with pain, stiffness, and posture imbalances as a result of lifestyle, repetitive movements, injuries and surgeries, and mental and emotional stress.
In this session, James will guide us through safe weight-bearing somatic movement sequences that will not only strengthen muscles and increase bone density, but also repattern muscle groups to their optimal length in a resting position. As with Hanna Somatics, these movements also improve balance and coordination. Somatic Stability is inspired by mat Pilates combined with the technique of pandiculation. Modifications and tips will be offered to encourage people of all ages and abilities to follow along.
James Knight, E-RYT, CHSE, was certified as a Hanna Somatic Educator by the Novato Institute for Somatic Research and Training, Wave 3. He is one of the pioneers to bridge yoga and Somatics. He has been an Integrative Therapist for over 25 years. From his combined experience as a lifelong yogi, intuitive bodyworker, psychotherapist, and movement educator, James created a method of yoga that integrates what he discovered to be the most progressive, life-enhancing techniques into an embodied movement practice. Gentle Somatic Yoga was born out of years of exploring means of connecting and integrating the deeper aspects of the whole Self (Soma). Part of the philosophy of Gentle Somatic Yoga is creating harmony and balance throughout one’s entire Soma. It was with this in mind Somatic Stability was created. James’ passion is to awaken the possible for people living with challenges related to physical, mental, and emotional limitations. He does so by inspiring and encouraging them in discovering freedom through mindful movement and meditation. This allows the Soma to make regenerative, fulfilling choices on every level—mind, body, and Spirit.