We are often asked if we recommend specific products that help with good posture. The following list is a collection of products that Esther tested and recommends.
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Rib brace
Though this belt is usually recommended to people who have broken rib(s), it is also useful to Gokhale Method students for training their rib anchor. It serves as a coach to maintain the lower front border of the rib cage flush with the abdomen. For times when the student is not paying attention, it prevents the rib cage from flaring.
Back Brace
We teach the inner corset as a way for people to form a back brace from their own muscles. When first learning to use the inner corset, these muscles are easily exhausted. Having an external back brace like this one ideally serves two purposes: to remind the student periodically to engage their inner corset and also to provide a safety net for the spine when those muscles are too tired and/or too weak for the job at hand. Be sure to position the back brace above L5-S1.
Neck Hammock
Gently putting the neck muscles in traction can bring increased comfort and health to the cervical spine. Many commercial neck traction units pull the neck in an unhealthy direction. This unit, simple as it is, pulls the neck in a healthy direction. Be sure to follow Gokhae Method guidelines when positioning your head in the hammock, and go gently.
Cervical Neck Traction Device
This simple, inexpensive device does the job of putting the neck in the right orientation while adding gentle traction.
Over Door Cervical Neck Traction
This device is distinguished from other over-the-door neck traction devices in that it orients the head and neck in a healthy position while adding traction.
Ben's Block
Physical therapy research performed in Australia has shown that working on hard tissue vs soft tissue is more effective for relieving neck tension. Each of the three edges of Ben’s Block has a different radius of curvature, thus giving several choices for pressure on trigger points.
Bellicon Trampoline
This trampoline is high quality and wears well. It provides a smooth bounce, which allows you to work your inner corset and lower body muscles while being gentle on the weight-bearing joints.
Ceayun Pull up Bar
This pull up bar is extremely easy to install (no screws). Gently releasing your body weight while holding the bar and maintaining a strong rib anchor provides healthy traction in the spine at a level you’re comfortable with. Be careful not to twist or swing in ways that will dismount the bar!
Dumbbells
Dumbbells are useful to have on hand to strengthen key postural muscles, such as the inner corset. I own 3, 5, and 10 pound sets for upper body strengthening, augmented bird dog, etc.. Brand isn’t important.
Exercise Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are a gentle, effective way to activate and strengthen key postural muscles without distorting the spine. They’re especially useful for reinforcing healthy shoulder positioning and externally rotated legs.
Running Shoes
These running shoes have a wide toe box and a healthy amount of cushioning (not too much, not too little—just right). I particularly like that you can slip in and out of these without having to tie and untie the laces.
Xero
These shoes also have a nice kidney bean shape. Some of the models are more elegant than average for running shoes. Make sure that if you are going to add an insole that the height at the front part of the shoe gives sufficient room for an intact metatarsal arch.
Sandals
These sandals have a bean-shaped sole, and comfortable contouring that supports the medial, lateral, and metatarsal arches.
