The 3 Planes of Space and Movement in the Tensintegral System of the Body for Dynamic Posture
Tensegrity and Dynamic Posture
The human body is an extraordinarily complex system, constantly moving and adapting. To fully understand how the body moves and interacts with the surrounding space, it is useful to examine the 3 fundamental planes of space, consider the body part of a tensintegral system, and understand that our posture is dynamic.
The Three Planes of Space
To facilitate understanding of body movement, anatomists and physical therapists often divide space into three main planes:
1. Sagittal plane: This plane divides the body into two symmetrical parts, right and left. The movements that occur in this plane involve extension and flexion, such as lifting the arms or flexing the legs.
2. Frontal (or Coronal) Plane: This plane divides the body into an anterior and a posterior part. The movements that occur in this plane involve adduction and abduction, such as lifting the legs laterally or tilting the torso laterally.
3. Transverse (or Horizontal) Plane: This plane divides the body into an upper and a lower part. Movements that occur in this plane involve rotation, such as twisting of the torso or rotation of the shoulders.
These three planes provide a useful framework for understanding the direction and nature of body movement in relation to the surrounding space.
The Body as a Tensintegral System: a dynamic balance between tension and compression
The concept of the tensintegral system, introduced by architect and visionary Buckminster Fuller, suggests that the human body is structurally organized in a way that reflects the dynamic balance between tension and compression. This means that the different parts of the body are interconnected and work together in harmony to support and facilitate movement.
When the body moves, different parts of the body react and adapt to external and internal forces through the distribution of tension and compression. For example, during a simple walk, the legs, spine, muscles, and joints work synergistically to maintain balance, support body weight, and produce coordinated leg movement.
Integrating Tensegrity into the Understanding of Body Movement
Understanding the three planes of space and the concept of the body’s tensintegral system is critical for many movement professionals, including physical therapists, movement therapists, coaches, and yoga and pilates teachers. This knowledge can be applied in evaluating and treating musculoskeletal dysfunction, optimizing sports performance, and teaching safe and effective movement techniques.
In conclusion, exploring the three planes of space and understanding the body as part of a tensintegral system offers a valuable framework for understanding human body movement and optimizing physical health and well-being. These concepts can be applied in a variety of clinical and fitness settings, helping people reach their full potential for movement and vitality.
