Opening The Chest

You've already opened the chest by setting the shoulders and integrating the upper back. Both of these actions create a lifting sensation through the chest and sternum, as well as integrating the upper back in support of this opening. We can enhance the lifting action of the sternum by bringing our attention to the occipital ridge.

The occipital ridge is at the back of the skull, just above the hairline. You can find the occipital ridge by bringing the tips of the fingers to the top of the skull and slowly sliding them down the back of the head until you feel them dip into softer tissue. This bony protrusion is called the occipital ridge.

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Interlace your fingers and bring the hands to the occipital ridge. The elbows will be bent and wide. Press the back of the skull into the hands without lifting the chin. It will feel as though you are making a double chin. When done correctly this action will result in a subtle lifting of the sternum and is enhanced with the inhale. You may choose to gently lift the chin to complete this action.

Voila! Your chest is opening, enhanced by the in-breath.