22 Feb The ideal posture for peeing
Sorry for the literal title, but you have to know this information because it will surprise you and yes, make peeing easier…. at least it did for me!
I recently took a Pelvic Health course called Empowered Pelvic Health, with Fritha Pengelly (Feldenkrais Practitioner), and Ruth Ever (Whole Woman Educator). I honestly did not know what to expect, but I was very surprised to learn how the bladder, uterus and rectum sit in the pelvis.
Why do I care? I had bladder issues, and I wanted to know why.
I also wanted to understand so I can help more of my clients with potential postural issues that might contribute to pelvic problems.
This image shows the organs arranged somewhat horizontally, with the public bone situated at the bottom.
I don’t know about you, but I thought the organs were more behind rather than above the pubic bone!
My self image had the organs stacked vertically over the floor of the pelvis.
In other words the pelvic floor is not really a floor, but rather a wall and the weight of these organs need to be forward toward the belly.
Anterior tilt = good
Tucked Tail = not good
Maybe all this fuss about strengthening the pelvic floor is the wrong thing to focus on, and rather distributing the weight of the organs forward is a better option.
Which brings us to the flat belly problem.
If we hold our tummy in and tuck our tail, this pushes the organs back and down.
Ever had leakage? Maybe coughed and peed your pants? Maybe recurrent bladder infections because you can’t empty properly?
Which brings me back to the learning and personal discovery of the best position for peeing! If you have experienced a prolapse of the organs this is also a better angle.
Tipping forward takes weight off the pelvic floor muscles, allows for a relaxation of the abdomen and ideal angle to empty your bladder! NO PUSHING required.
Enjoy the free flow!
I have discovered there are thousands of images to pick from on the internet, however many of them are inaccurate and look more like the pelvis of an infant.
The trouble with that is an infant has not developed the muscular and spinal curves required for standing. Everything changes once we get vertical and our bones and organs grow and our muscles develop for upright posture, including that curve we need in our lower backs.
If you are looking for empowering ways to take care of your pelvic health, look for a qualified Pelvic Floor physiotherapist and check out the Whole Woman Website.