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If you have any questions about your training, or any general inquiries, please feel free to contact me at connieessentialcore@gmail.com. I check my email daily and you should hear back from me soon!
Looking forward to hearing from you!
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-Checking vertical alignment between cheekbone and collarbone.
It’s to your advantage to have your head perched directly above your spine—not just for good alignment, but for how you feel and move throughout the day. A head in optimal alignment with the neck can reduce tension, improve your body image and even change the way you carry yourself.
Try this: Imagine your head as a helium balloon floating gently upward. Your neck and spine are the string, soft and flexible like wool. This simple mental image can instantly relax your shoulders, lengthen your neck and help you stand taller—without effort or strain.
Now, consider the weight of that “balloon.” The human head weighs anywhere from 9 to 12 pounds. When it’s aligned over the spine, your body carries that weight with ease. But for every inch the head shifts forward, the effective load on your neck doubles. That forward head posture—common with screen time and stress—can wreak havoc on your neck, shoulders and overall alignment.
Here’s a quick way to check your head position:
1. Sit near the edge of a chair.
2. Place one index finger on the part of your cheekbone that sticks out just below the eye.
3. Place your other index finger directly below it on your collarbone.
4. Look in a mirror or ask someone to check: Are the two fingers vertically aligned?
If the finger on your cheekbone is ahead of the one on your collarbone, your head is likely too far forward for optimal alignment.
Awareness is the first step. Use both the visual imagery of the floating balloon and this hands-on check throughout the day to gently guide your head back to center. When your head is naturally balanced at the top of your spine, your whole body follows.
A small shift at the top can create big changes in how you feel, move and carry yourself—no equipment required.
Connie Aronson is an exercise physiologist and Corrective Exercise Specialist ( TBBM-CES ) Visit her and her Golden, Josie on Instagram @Josie_thegolden and www.conniearonson.com
Published in The Idaho Mountain Express October 24, 2025
