1. Movements of the spine

Our spinal column is a highly mobile part of our body. It can move in all directions;

Flexion; bending forward

Extension; bending backward 

Lateral flexion; side bending

Rotation; twisting

Fig 1. Movements of the spine. Illustration by Prue Schafferius

More than 1 spinal movement can be performed in combination. Eg extension, lateral flexion and rotation; a backbend while looking back over your shoulder.

This is extremely true of Bellydance which requires many motions in all different directions all at once to achieve the complex movements.

Fig 2. Combination spinal movement. Illustration by Prue Schafferius

Each individual will have varying degrees of flexibility due to a range of factors such as

• The shape of the vertebrae.
• The thickness of the intervertebral discs (the thicker the disc, the greater the movement.) Disc height can decrease due to age, injury or disease. 
• Articulation with the ribs. The thoracic vertebrae articulate to the ribs which limits spinal movement in this area. 
• Ligament length determined by genetics.
• Muscle flexibility determined by genetics and affected by lifestyle.