DONT' BEND AFTER LYING DOWN FOR SEVERAL HOURS
The spine consists of discs in between each vertebra, which allow for movement and cushion. These discs are primarily made of fluid, which is lost during the day and reabsorbed while you sleep, in a process known as disc imbibition. In fact, we lose up to 19 mm of height each day from the loss of disc fluid! After lying down for 2-3 hours, the discs reabsorb their lost fluid and are at full size. When they are full size, the potential stresses placed on the discs are increased by 300%. As a result, it is imperative not to flex/bend your spine for one hour after you have rested for at least 2-3 hours. If you must bend during this time, try squatting, stepping forward, or rotating at yoru hips. Avoiding flexion of the spine after 2-3 hours of lying down is a great way to protect your back. Please understand, that I’m not saying you can’t bend during these aforementioned times, I’m saying it is especially important that you bend the CORRECT way.
