Reference; https://mbp-japan.com/jijico/articles/32364/
Modified and translated by CFJA
Are there ways to correct muscle imbalances between the left and right sides?
People who are right-handed often have a dominant right leg as well. When muscle imbalances occur between the left and right sides of the body, they can lead to pain and discomfort. For example, imbalances in upper body muscles (trapezius and latissimus dorsi) can cause shoulder stiffness or headaches. In contrast, imbalances in lower back or hip muscles (quadratus lumborum and gluteus medius) may result in back or knee pain.
How to Address Muscle Imbalances
The key to balancing muscle strength is to start movements with the non-dominant hand or foot.
For Right-Handed Individuals to Strengthen the Upper Body:
1. Begin putting on and taking off clothing with the left side first.
2. Brush your teeth with your left hand.
3. Practice writing or drawing with your left hand.
4. Use chopsticks or a spoon with your left hand.
5. Use your left hand when pouring water over yourself in the bath.
For Right-Legged Individuals to Strengthen the Lower Body:
6. Begin putting on and taking off pants with the left leg first.
7. Put on and take off pants while standing, starting with the left leg.
8. Put on socks while standing, beginning with the left foot.
9. When starting to pedal a bicycle, use your left foot first.
In essence, try to reverse habitual movements by starting with the left side or performing actions with the left hand or foot instead of the right. This is especially effective for individuals who feel unsteady when standing on one leg, as the gluteus medius plays a significant role in stabilizing the body during single-leg stances.
Start with small, manageable changes in your daily routine. It may take months or even years to notice significant improvements, but as you succeed in these adjustments, you’ll likely see a considerable reduction in muscle imbalances.
Benefits of Reducing Muscle Imbalances
• Strengthening the upper body can help alleviate shoulder stiffness and headaches.
• Strengthening the lower body can reduce back pain and knee pain.
• Consistent practice may lead to mental calmness and a more positive outlook.
Because the left side of the body is controlled by the right brain, improving coordination on the left can also enhance brain balance and positively impact mental activity.
Age-Related Challenges
• By the late 60s, some individuals begin to lose lower body strength, making it difficult to stand on one leg (1.25% of men and 2.76% of women aged 65–69).
• In the 70s, upper body strength declines, affecting grip strength.
• By the 80s, people often lose motivation, making it challenging to consciously address muscle imbalances.
Target Audience
These strategies are particularly suitable for individuals in their 40s and 50s, as this is a period when muscle imbalances can be corrected more easily.
For those interested in visualizing life in their 70s, 80s, or 90s, I recommend referring to past blog entries for additional insights.
AcuMoxa and yoga therapy are ideal treatments for correcting muscle imbalances.
People in their 40s and 50s are in an age range where they can still push themselves physically. However, it’s also a time when they may start experiencing internal organ issues or joint pain in the knees and lower back. For those in their prime working years, acumoxa can be a powerful ally.
AcuMoxa is a “dual internal and external therapy” that can stimulate internal organ function through external treatment. If you haven’t found relief through medication (internal treatment) or surgery (external treatment), acumoxa therapy is highly recommended. It can help restore balance in your body and enable you to enjoy a vibrant and active life in your 40s and 50s. If you are interested in acupuncture and moxibustion, consult a local acupuncture clinic or a healthcare facility with certified acupuncturists.
For preventing muscle decline and maintaining or improving physical strength, yoga therapy is ideal. Yoga is particularly effective for those experiencing muscle or organ function decline. While muscle imbalances can arise from skeletal misalignment, some individuals have congenital misalignments or conditions caused by accidents or illnesses that cannot be entirely corrected.
Yoga poses (asanas) are designed to adjust the overall balance of the body, tailored to each individual’s needs. As such, yoga is an excellent health practice for correcting imbalances and aiding recovery from illnesses.
For more details on daily self-care practices, you may find valuable insights in past blog entries on lifestyle and wellness.
Dr. Seino’s concept of “Yōsei Treatment” refers to maintaining an appropriate and healthy daily life.
Does physical decline really start at 40?! Are there secrets to preventing muscle loss? 01
Does physical decline really start at 40?! Are there secrets to preventing muscle loss? 02