At Kontemplation, we are not experts in anatomy – but we have a passionate interest in the physiological aspects of the body as well.
In this centering exercise, Martin directs our attention towards holistic experiences of the spine – which become central starting points for being able to physically anchor ourselves within ourselves.

It can be a support for physical exercises to have a very basic knowledge of the body's anatomy and physiology, its skeletal and muscular structure, and its biological processes.

The spine – which is found in all vertebrates – in humans consists of 33 bones or, as anatomists call them, segments.
These 33 vertebrae can move in several directions. In this exercise, it is especially the possibility of rotating around the vertical axis that Martin invites.
The upper part of the spine, the cervical vertebrae, are relatively small. After that, the vertebrae below, where the weight and pressure they have to hold increases, become increasingly larger.
What can remind us of the enormous pressure our lower back must be able to withstand. Remind us of how well we must take care of it. And precisely a twist of the type that we are guided through in this exercise is particularly valuable here.
In the middle of the spine is the spinal canal, which is a crucial part of the central nervous system. It consists of a stream of impulses that runs through the bone marrow, both from top to bottom and from bottom to top.

How the connection is between the measurable nerve impulses and the conscious experiences that accompany them remains a great mystery. This is called the body-consciousness problem or paradox.
But it is certain that raising awareness of the spine, an awareness that can take place in many ways, can be an important aid to psychophysical well-being.
This exercise is an example of such awareness-raising.