The challenge for last month would have been better had I only focused on one or two aspects of proper alignment. If I do something like this again, that is what I will do.

Alignment is to some degree a very subjective concept. One reason for this is that humans are not statues; we are often in motion (and should be). Another reason for this is that each person’s physique is different than “normal” and some are majorly different. For this reason, when thinking about alignment, one has to take it to some degree with a grain of salt and think in generalities, not specifics.

Overall, my month was mediocre. There were some times where I really committed to my exercise routine and focused on really good alignment. However, there were also times where I was lazy both in maintaining alignment and in exercising.

Here is what I learned:

• A “balance” must be found between relaxation and perfect alignment. Now, for some people, this might not be necessary. However, it was an imperative for me. Sustained tension can cause as much trouble (if not more) as improper alignment. This is something the Physical Medicine specialist I have seen several times in Houston warned me about as well, knowing my determination to achieve results.
• Taking cold showers is a huge help in maintaining alignment. I am not sure why this is, I just know it is the case from experience. I learned this by accident. I have previously used cold showers strictly as a motivational tactic. However, if my back or neck feels tight or overworked, taking a cold shower dissipates the fatigue without compromising alignment. In my experience, hot showers do not do this, at least not to the same degree.
• The best way to have perfect alignment is to constantly be flowing to different positions. When I am in classes, this is not very feasible. However, I am trying to find ways to easily adapt to different positions when I am studying or working on the computer. These include sitting, standing, lying down, squatting, and kneeling in a modified hero’s pose.
• Find ways to crack your back if possible. If I didn’t do this many times a day, I would probably be miserable. If you are unable to do this, consider visiting a chiropractor, unless you feel that your back is perfect already. The main way I crack mine is by bending over to a 90 degree angle with knees straight and then jerking my torso upward.

Don’t ever get discouraged about alignment or let it negatively affect your self image. I am saying this for myself, but if you have similar tendencies, please take note of this. You will always improve the most when you have a positive motivation for what you are doing rather than a negative motivation. It also makes the process infinitely more enjoyable.