Ep 170: Don’t Ignore the Head and Neck

Biomechanist Katy Bowman talks to biologist Jeannette Loram about the importance of head and neck movement. This year, Katy’s annual exercise advent offers 24 moves for the head and neck and Katy explains her personal and professional reasons for choosing this theme.  Jeannette and Katy discuss the head and neck as a hub for our sensory, nervous, immune, digestive and vestibular systems, all of which require movement to support their functions. They discuss common issues of the head and neck region, as well as how repetitive head positioning and neck immobility can relate to broader experiences in the body, such as Katy’s discovery of a decrease in her height that she is working to reverse. They discuss the basic movements of the head and neck and also cover the structures of the region including a neck anatomy lesson provided by their favourite 1970s musical ‘Grease’ and a third-grade attempt to mimic the album cover! They share their own head and neck care practices and suggest strategies for listeners to add more daily movement for this part of the body; from changing their sleep set-up to pairing specific neck movements with a daily cue.Connect, Move & Learn:Join Our Newsletter: Movement Colored GlassesFollow Katy on SubstackTry Katy's Virtual Studio Free for 7 days!Made Possible by Our Dynamic Collective of Wonderful Sponsors: Wildling, minimal footwear for toddlers, kids and adults made from natural materialsPeluva, Five-toe minimalist sports shoes ideal for higher impact activitiesVenn Design, beautiful floor cushions and ball seats that keep you moving at home or at the office.Correct Toes, soft silicone toe spacers that can be worn barefoot or in shoesSmart Playrooms, design and products to keep your kids engaged and active at homeMovemate, dynamic active standing boards that invite movement and play into your workday, without disrupting your workflowThoughts/questions email us at [email protected] Voice on the Podcast: Read The Credits  October Retreats 2026