We have been fighting more and more intensely as time passes for a general better health condition of our society. What if we've simply been wrong because modern trends have inadvertently discredited traditional instinctive knowledge? Have you noticed how the cycle of declining human vitality seems to be a linear function of getting older and losing flexibility?
In this publication we explore a very ancient knowledge used in the autonomous management of health and well-being to limit the uncomfortable functioning of the body. This is the practice of stretching muscles and ligaments. At best, it is regarded with condescension by the current proponents of health management, certainly given the number of people who continue to adhere to it. At worst, it is regularly accused of potentially endangering the health of those who practice it, probably because it drastically reduces their dependence on the promoted health system.
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A comprehensive history of muscle and ligament stretching practices
Stretching, as a physical discipline, has been an integral part of human health and well-being for millennia. Its history is a tapestry woven from threads of various ancient civilizations, each contributing their unique philosophies and techniques.
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Ancient Egypt (Kemet):
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The practice of Kemetic Yoga, or Egyptian Yoga, suggests that stretching exercises akin to yoga were present in the daily life and spiritual practices of ancient Egypt. It's thought that this branch of yoga and philosophy first emerged in Egypt, which would mean it's even older than Indian yoga!
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The postures depicted in hieroglyphs and temple carvings bear a striking resemblance to modern yoga poses, indicating a sophisticated understanding of the human body and its capabilities. This form of yoga emphasized harmony between the physical and spiritual realms, with a focus on breath control and meditative postures.
Ancient India: Yoga Asanas, as part of the broader system of Yoga, have their roots in ancient Indian traditions. The Vedas, Upanishads, and the seminal work of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras laid the foundation for a holistic approach to physical and spiritual well-being. Asanas, or postures, were developed to prepare the body for prolonged meditation and to enhance vitality, strength, and flexibility.
Traditional Chinese Practice (Paida Lajin):
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Paida Lajin is a self-health management method that comes from traditional Chinese medicine.
It involves “Paida” (patting and slapping) and “Lajin” (stretching) to improve energy and other fluid circulation and expel “sha,” which is toxic substance through blod that harbors latent diseases.
Contemporary Controversy: While practitioners absolutely love it, Paida Lajin and other traditional stretching practices have been the subject of controversy due to Health Authorities' concerns about safety and the lack of modern scientific evidence supporting certain aspects of their claims.
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The link between Original Muscle & Ligament Stretching practices
The link between these practices in the history of muscle and ligament stretching exercises lies in their shared objectives and methods. They all utilize the body’s natural movements and capabilities to promote health and wellness, albeit through nuanced philosophies and techniques. While Indian Yoga Asanas have become a global phenomenon recognized for their health benefits, Kemet Yoga Asanas and Paida Lajin remains a more niche practice with a specific cultural context. Both, however, contribute to the rich tapestry of human practices aimed at maintaining and improving physical health. They all share:
Common Goal: Both Yoga Asanas and Paida Lajin share the common goal of stretching muscle and ligament exercises. They aim to improve flexibility, enhance fluid circulation, and promote wellness.
Holistic Approach: These practices take a holistic approach to health, considering the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness.
Cultural Integration: They also reflect the integration of cultural beliefs and medical practices in the history of physical exercises and therapies.
If you’re interested in exploring these practices further or integrating them into your wellness routine, it’s always recommended to do so under the guidance of a qualified instructor.
Evolution of Original Muscle & Ligament Stretching practices
Cultural Exchange: The ancient world was interconnected through trade routes and cultural exchanges, allowing for the sharing of knowledge and practices. It is plausible that stretching techniques and philosophies traveled and evolved through these interactions, leading to parallel developments in different regions.
Modern Medical Recognition: It wasn’t until the 18th century that stretching began to be studied scientifically. An osteological study documented the benefits of stretching for the musculoskeletal system, laying the groundwork for modern practices. It is a documented fact that stretching gained prominence in physical therapy programs for rehabilitation and in sports for performance enhancement in the 20th century, particularly after World War II.
Global Dissemination: Over the centuries, these practices were refined and adapted to suit various cultural contexts. With the advent of globalization, the 20th century saw a resurgence in the popularity of Indian yoga and stretching exercises, leading to their widespread adoption as essential components of fitness and wellness routines.
Modern Practices: Today, stretching exercises are recognized for their numerous health benefits, not always as they were originally perceived. Various forms of stretching, such as static, dynamic, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF), are employed in sports, rehabilitation, and daily life to maintain and improve physical function. Each method serves its specific purpose, from helping you move more freely to getting your muscles ready for action.
As you realize now, the history of muscle and ligament stretching is a rich and diverse one, with contributions from ancient Egypt’s Kemetic Yoga, India’s Yoga Asanas, Chinese Paida Lajin and other various traditional stretching practices playing pivotal roles. Recognizing the multifaceted origins of these practices allows us to appreciate the shared human pursuit of health and harmony. As we continue to explore and practice stretching, we honor the wisdom of our ancestors and contribute to the legacy of physical culture of self-health management for future generations.
Original view on Muscle & Ligament Stretching benefits for the body
Let’s explore the traditional knowledge surrounding muscle and ligament stretching techniques, considering their effects on both physical well-being and mental functioning. We’ll also delve into the electromagnetic dimension, which includes concepts like Ka, Prana, Chi (or Qi), Fluids Flow and their potential influence. It’s important to notice that Kemetic Yoga weaves together elements from Indian and Chinese traditions, emphasizing both chakras and meridians to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual health.
Muscle and Ligament Stretching Biomechanics
- Biomechanical Effects: Stretching exercises aim to increase muscle and joint flexibility, reduce muscle stiffness, and enhance joint range of motion (ROM). These movements have an effect on the morpho-functional unit "muscle-tendon" and improve the function of joints, muscles and tendons, allowing uncommon movements that permit subtle energy flowing easier.
- Joint–Ligament–Tendon–Muscle Unit: Traditional practices recognize the interconnectedness of these structures, with fare more complex implications. For example, the traditional view consider that any stiffness and rigidity of muscles and ligaments is the direct expression of poorly optimized functioning of one or more units of the human body system. Stretching helps maintain Joint–Ligament–Tendon–Muscle Unit good health and optimal functioning.
Traditional Views on Stretching
- Ancient Wisdom: Traditional systems like yoga and Chinese practices emphasize stretching for health and vitality, as they consider it capital to preserve the flexibility of the body. They perceive its connection with Good Health and mostly it unique contribution to the specific human capacity explore the self. The related practice requires “voluntary proactive inertness” which is impossible when the body works with malaise and/or lack physical and/or mental flexibility.
Electromagnetic Dimension
Traditional practices universally recognize the positive impact of stretching muscles and ligaments. This ancient wisdom suggests that such stretching enhances fluid flow within the body, surpassing even the physical fluids acknowledged by modern scientific authorities.
- Ka: The Ka in Ancient Egyptian Concepts represents the vital essence or life force of an individual. It is often depicted as a double, shadowy figure standing behind a person. The Kais intimately connected to the physical body and remains with it throughout life. After death, it continues to exist in the afterlife. The core philosophy of Kemetic Yoga emphasizes the pivotal role of breath as the conduit of life-force energy. The practice of Kemetic Yoga posture aim at promoting flexibility, fluid circulation. Kemetic Yoga asanas serve as a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms, promoting wellness, consciousness, and connection to Original Wisdom.
- Prana (Indian Tradition): Prana is considered the life force energy that permeates all living things. It’s associated with breath and consciousness. While not directly measurable by modern science, it aligns with the concept of bioelectromagnetic fields.
- Chi (Chinese Tradition): Chi (or Qi) flows through meridians, impacting health. Although not fully understood through modern science, its influence on energy balance is recognized.
- Connective Tissue Matrix: The role of stretching in positively affecting the composition of the connective tissue matrix is theorized. Collagen synthesis, hyaluronic acid, and glycosaminoglycan turnover may be influenced by stretching1.
In summary, stretching practices bridge ancient wisdom and modern science. Whether through Ka, Prana, Chi, or other energetic concepts, stretching contributes to overall well-being, supporting physical health and mental clarity.
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