THE WHAT:
As simple & highly accessible, stand-alone context for mobilising both the local (cervicothoracic & lumbar) as well as global spine. The addition of craniosacral exploration also brings a further context of sensitivity & manipulation to be explored/practiced. As it incorporates active stretching in extension & flexion throughout the spinal 'levels', it makes for a particularly beneficial tool for those with limited neuromuscular-efficiency/”neural drive” in the spine from lifestyle/practice habits, or for those who are simply unfamiliar with the concept of 'spinal work' and do not have any specific patterns to work with. It is, therefore, suitable for both the beginner as well as the intermediate & advanced practitioner as a general spinal-mobilization context.

In determining & working different ‘levels’ of extension/flexion along the spine there is the benefit of SENSUAL-feedback, as the skin and tissues STRETCH along the vertebral column and to the anterior side of the body. This not only serves to therapeutically “massage” the layers of soft-tissue in the process, potentially helping manage restrictions or superficial adhesions there, but the distinct feedback from the stretch allows the practitioner to better “tune-in” to the feeling of their spine moving in, out of, and through its end-ranges, and to better “map” the spine on a SENSUAL-level. This means that when moving onto more intricate, isolated projects (such as 'rolling' and 'waving'), there is something to refer to, i.e. the practitioner can at least "feel" their spine.

Further, the 'open/close' action of the arms corresponds with a full-range expression of the scapular musculature, going from a maximal contraction in the open position (further promoting development of neural-drive in the end-range), to a maximal stretch with the elbows pulling together & inward on the closing. Combined with a breathing frame, it can also be used for re-/balancing the para-/sympathetic nervous systems. This essentially makes it a potential stress-reduction tool, perfect for morning practice, physical preparation, or just as a go-to 'movement snack' if you've found yourself sitting on/blocking your '(spinal) pump' for some time.

PROGRAMMING RECOMMENDATIONS:
The sequence can be practiced in full as frequently as DAILY, although a minimum of 3-4x per week is recommended toward simply building familiarity with its execution and some small understanding of the therapeutic benefits of its more frequent practice. It serves well to start a ‘morning practice’, or can even be used for “centring” and calming oneself before a main session of practice.

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