Page 120 - The lraternational Journal of the Royal Society of Thailand.indd

The International Journal of the Royal Society of Thailand
Volume XV-2023

Program Objective: A Program proposed from the past clinical experience
Introduction

The proposed program aims to improve posture and mobility in patients
suffering from chronic pain and degenerative arthritis, thoracic kyphosis, sway back,
spondylolisthesis of the low back, osteoporotic spinal fracture, fibromyalgia of the
iliopsoas, and minor musculoskeletal problems. Additionally, the program intends to
prevent the late development of spinal deformity and improve physical mobility in

the aged. Ultimately, the program seeks to form habitual smart posture and movement,
which requires concentration and awareness training of the mind. The training involves
static contraction of the abdominal muscles, which is different from conventional

training methods (Nejc et al, 2013; Wagner et al, 2014; Moon et al, 2015).

Theoretical Points of View

The brain operates routine daily activities in an unconscious mode, including
walking, dressing, and value. The patterns of standing, walking, and sitting set by the

brain are the lowest energy consumption modes, which conserve energy. Saunders
et al. (1953) described the six determinants of gait based on the lowest energy
consumption model. However, energy conservation can lead to sarcopenia, malposition,
and joint strain in the aged. The proposed program aims to build the habit of high
energy consumption modes on sitting, standing, and walking to prevent these

conditions.

The Training

The program’s prerequisite is the ability to perform basic meditation by
observing breathing and body movement, which is helpful. In the first three months,
regular daily training of 20 minutes, 12- sessions, is crucial. The trainee has the option

to perform the training in either a sitting or standing posture. At the onset of the training,
the trainee initiates a constant contraction of the abdomen, which is accompanied by
the simultaneous contraction of other muscles in the trunk, as well as the chest muscles,
and to a lesser extent, muscles in the extremities, which can be observed by the trainee.

Simultaneous breathing controlled by muscles around the chest is necessary to
maintain the constant abdominal contraction. This can be facilitated by concomitant
motion of both shoulders and arms at the same pace of breathing in and out. Singing
favourite songs with deep breathing (Draina, 2023) can help prevent boredom. Within

a few months of regular training, the trainees can usually contract the abdominal
muscles with normal breathing under conscious control.

112 Training Body and Mind for the Aged