The Heart of Movement 5 - Heart's living castle

This lesson cosiders the home of the heart. The extent and qualities of the head, neck and torso and the tubular organisation of the whole body. We’ll also be exploring the web of support for the cardio vascular system and indeed for the entire body - Our fascia or connective tissue. 

Normally, when you see anatomical pictures they look like this ..

Created using the Visible Bodies App

Muscle and bone, organs and blood vessels all neatly laid out and easily distinguished. 

The reality is quite different. Every structure in our body is suspended in a web of fascia. There is a meme on the anatomy trains website that asks - ‘Are there really 600 muscles or just one muscle in 600 fascial pockets?’

Denis Wojkiewicz via Pinterest

We’ll consider the space within the head, neck and torso and how it allows us to function. How much space do our heart and lungs need to function well?

Dennis Wojkiewicz via Pinterest

How does the organisation of our body affect the interior space of the blood vessels in our limbs?

It’s easy to think of the body as a collection of discreet compartments but the reality is that everything is connected via the profusion of vessels, nerves and flexible tissues. 

Nevertheless, it is possible to think of our circulations system as a resonant ocean that flows within us. It too is a great connector as it ferries oxygen and carbon dioxide, nutrients, enzymes and neurotransmitters.

Robert Anasch Via UnSplash

So you’ll be sensing the front and the back and the top and the bottom along the length of our body. You’ll consider the functional possibilities of those places and how space makes it easy to move.

You may even get a bit more control over your lower belly .. and all within earshot of your magnificent heart.