Stiff neck, aching lower backs, and many other common body problems may be explained by the following facts and theories:

The human body, particularly the musculoskeletal system, suffers from structural weaknesses. In its evolution, the body has only partially adapted to the consequences of the upright posture. Thus, even the healthiest bodies are subject to structural and biomechanical influences that can create a variety of health problems.

How we use, or misuse, our bodies can aggravate the basic faults of human structure, and actually increase the potential for serious chronic, physical problems. Most people sit, stand, and move in ways that encourage the development of pathogenic processes.  For example, simple postural tendencies such as standing with the back too arched or too curved, cause undo stress to the spine, resulting in aches and pains, or serious physical problems.

People do not possess good natural instincts for healthful posture and movement. These human patterns are largely learned behavior, molded by everyday influences of culture, economy, and technology. Most of these patterns are not geared toward preserving the body in good working order. Some of the many lifestyles and occupations that could reinforce un-healthful body habits include:

Office workers who sit for long periods of time at typewriters or computer terminals;
Sales people who are on their feet all day;
Musicians who hold their bodies in physically stressful positions;
Architects, engineers, or artists who hunch over drafting tables;
Physical laborers ranging from home makers to construction workers;
Amateur and professionals, athletes and dancers.

Despite our lack of instincts for good posture and movement, human beings possess enormous learning capacity. Just as we learned unhealthy body habits, we can replace them with healthy new ones. Our mental ability allows us to acquire the body awareness and knowledge necessary to cope with our basic structural problems.

In summary:
Structural weaknesses of the human body, exaggerated by characteristic patterns of posture and movement, help explain many common complaints: back and neck pains; problems of shoulders, hips, knees and feet; and headaches or other maladies resulting from tension, fatigue and the inability to relax properly and rest comfortably.

By following the movement education program outlined in The Body Cognition Method, most of these problems can be prevented, and existing pain and disability could be relieved.

The work of the Body Cognition Institute is carried out in two formats: exercise groups and individual treatment.