Shrinkage as you age is normal. This starts when you are in your late 40s. Many women around age 70 are 5 centimeters shorter than they were at age 20. For men, this process is unfairly much slower.
That's why we're shrinking
Shrinkage occurs due to flattening of the discs between the spine and narrowing of the space between the joints. Additionally, older bones lose calcium, resulting in a loss of strength and vitality. Finally, wear and tear on the intervertebral discs can cause them to shrink. This is why older people often walk crookedly. Naturally, this makes the person look much smaller.
Can you prevent shrinkage?
But can you also do something yourself to prevent the shrinkage process? The answer is yes and no. It is a natural process that not much can be done about it. Of course you can make sure you maintain strong bones and this can be done by continuing to exercise often.
Alexander technique
However, there is a proven technique to combat shortening your height. You have to do a lot for it. This is the so-called Alexander Technique. This technique teaches you how to use your body in the best way possible and is an effective way to reduce or prevent back problems, for example. The Alexander Technique is very popular among musicians, artists, and athletes. An added advantage is that this technique improves health and reduces stress.
It works
Actor Frederick Alexander once invented this technique to improve his voice, but it also seemed to help with back pain, headaches, and age-related shrinkage. This technique is somewhat similar to physical therapy and teaches you how to use your body properly. The therapist helps you stand, sit, and walk correctly and improves muscle coordination, so you can move more efficiently.
A British journalist decided to have an Alexander Technique session after she appeared to have shrunk by 3cm. After the first session, she was an inch taller, but also felt much better overall.
In the Netherlands you can go to different places for this Alexander technique.
Less long, less bad
So we all know that as we get older we will shrink. But it's less bad than it might seem in advance. The damage is limited to one millimeter or one centimeter.
These exercises keep your back flexible
source: Daily Mail/Volkskrant
