Do You Look After Your Back When you Hold a Baby?

The Henry Moore exhibition at Kew Gardens finished at the end of March but leaves a wonderful memory for all those who saw it.

 
Mother and Child, although very abstract, evokes a strong sense of calm tenderness. Mother is portrayed holding the baby in a way that allows a safe, intimate connection with her.

I could also see the sculpture from an Alexander Technique perspective, as illustrating a common habit that many people have: contracting down on one side of the body and looking down with the head and neck to one side. Such patterns of mis-use can also be developed when writing, playing the guitar or using a mouse for instance.

If people habitually assume lop-sided positions, an imbalance in muscle use occurs, subjecting the vertebrae and intervertebral discs to an uneven, downward compression. This can cause back pain and problems such as scoliosis and sciatica.

So keep that tender intimacy with your child but remember to look after yourself at the same time. If a great work of art can also remind us to be aware of our own use, that is an unexpected bonus.



Henry Moore ~ Mother and Child ~ Kew Gardens