What is A Rib Cage Anyway?
The Ribs and The Spine
I am in awe of the rib cage! This beautiful structure is vital to life and is a powerful asset for performing artists. But what is a rib cage anyway? The word ‘cage’ in its name could imply a structure that is stiff and rigid. But the rib cage is anything but this. The next few posts will give you insights you can use to breathe better, move more effortlessly, and elevate your expression. Here we go…
This post focuses on two parts of the rib cage structure, the ribs, and thoracic spine.
The twenty-four ribs are organized in twelve pairs. Each rib has a unique shape and size contributing to mobility in breathing, support for arm movement, and protection of the lungs, heart, and diaphragm
The thoracic spine is located between the cervical, the neck, and the lumbar sections of the spine. This portion of the spine curves out to the back. The thoracic spine offers rotational and side-bending movement, as well as a small amount of flexion and extension.
The twenty-four ribs form joints with the twelve thoracic vertebrae in the back. Together the two sets of bones form 40 joints! You read that right, 4-0 joints. These joints are essential for breathing and torso movements.
This image shows the rib cage. Notice the connections in the back and the rounded curve of the thoracic spine in back.
Check in on your rib cage. How does it move in the back when you breathe? How does it move when you look over your shoulder or side bend? Ideally, there is movement in the back, on the sides, and in the front, around the chest as you breathe.
This breathing exercise will help you to mobilize the rear ribs and spine which are often stuck.
Be curious! Let me know what you find…