Patterns in Nature: A Reflection on Trees, Vertebrae, and the Cycles of Life
This morning, while walking through the park, I found myself immersed in the beauty of nature and the intricate patterns it reveals. As I observed the trees—their trunks, branches, and roots—it struck me how similar these structures are to those within our own bodies. The very patterns that govern nature’s growth and decay seem to echo throughout our physiology, particularly within the musculoskeletal system.


Earlier in the day, I had been reading Chapter 3 of Low Back Disorders by Professor Stuart McGill. The chapter explored the anatomy and loading characteristics of the vertebral discs and vertebrae, as well as the degenerative changes that commonly occur over time. As I studied the text, I visualized the vertebral column’s intricate design, with its vertical trabeculae forming a resilient support system, much like the sturdy trunk of a tree.
While gazing at the bark of a tree, I couldn’t help but notice the striking resemblance it bore to the vertical trabeculae within vertebral bodies. The textured, layered structure of tree bark mirrors the internal framework that provides strength to our spine, offering a parallel between biological systems in vastly different organisms. This similarity extends even further when examining the internal anatomy of a tree. The concentric growth rings, which record the tree’s history of environmental conditions, bear a remarkable resemblance to the layered annular fibers of the vertebral disc, which absorb and distribute mechanical stress. For an in-depth look at tree anatomy and how these structures function, visit this resource.
Beyond these structural similarities, the broader cycles of life in trees and the human body also align in profound ways. Trees go through seasonal phases—shedding leaves in the fall, conserving energy in winter, and regenerating in the spring. Our bodies experience analogous cycles of wear, repair, and rejuvenation. The metabolic shifts we undergo, the process of healing after injury, and even the natural aging of our tissues mirror the life cycles observed in nature.
This realization reinforced a deep sense of interconnectedness between the natural world and our own biological systems. Nature is not separate from us; rather, we are expressions of the same fundamental principles that guide the universe. Recognizing these patterns can deepen our appreciation for both our bodies and the environment, encouraging a more mindful and holistic approach to movement, health, and longevity.
This brings me to a friend of mine, Matthew, who is currently experiencing severe back pain. His recent MRI findings closely align with the descriptions in Low Back Disorders, reinforcing the importance of understanding spinal health through both a scientific and holistic lens. His history includes years of playing polo—an intense sport that subjected his spine to repeated impact forces, rotational stresses, and flexion as he maneuvered on horseback—followed by a career as a successful lawyer, which required long hours of sitting in a flexed posture. This combination of activities has contributed to the degenerative changes we see in his spinal structures today. Matthew is going to start learning from The Good Back Academy, which is our on-line resource aimed to teach theory and practice of spinal hygiene protocols, and help with proper exercise execution. If you'd like to see a summary of content within our modules, or watch some short video trailers, demos, or testimonials, access them here.
Matthew’s MRI Findings and What They Mean
Matthew’s MRI revealed multilevel degenerative disc disease, with disc desiccation at L4-L5 and Modic type II changes, indicating chronic wear and tear. These findings highlight how years of movement patterns and sustained postures have influenced his spine’s current condition. He also has moderate foraminal stenoses at multiple levels—most notably at L3-4 (left), L4-5 (bilateral), and L5-S1 (right)—which are likely contributing to his radiating leg pain and sciatic-like symptoms.
Additionally, mild central canal stenoses at L2-3, L3-4, and L5-S1 suggest that stiffness and discomfort are exacerbated by a narrowing of the spaces through which nerves travel. A broad central disc protrusion at L5-S1 could be irritating nerve roots, leading to the hammering pain in his left buttock and calf.
Despite these findings, Matthew does not require immediate surgery. Instead, his focus should be on structured recovery and movement optimization to alleviate nerve compression and build long-term resilience.
Healing Through Conscious Movement: The Recovery Plan
Although he is currently in pain, I want Matthew to understand that this discomfort is not a life sentence. Pain is a temporary state, and with the right approach, he can navigate through this episode and emerge stronger. Just as trees endure harsh winters before blooming again in spring, so too must the body undergo phases of healing and adaptation.
Short-Term Symptom Management: Reducing Nerve Irritation
Modify postures and movements to relieve nerve compression
Avoid prolonged sitting; use lumbar support when necessary.
Try lying positions that reduce stress on the lumbar spine: supine with knees elevated or side-lying with a pillow between the knees.
Avoid full spinal flexion (e.g., forward bending, tying shoes).
Controlled, gentle movement
Short, frequent walks (5-10 minutes) to maintain circulation.
Avoid impact activities like running or jumping.
Pain management techniques
Heat for muscle tightness, ice for nerve pain.
NSAIDs (if tolerated) to reduce inflammation.
Gentle decompression techniques like prone extensions (if tolerable).
Medium-Term Recovery: Restoring Function and Strength
Strengthen supporting muscles without exacerbating pain
Core activation exercises (e.g., bracing, isometric holds).
Glute and hip strengthening to support the lumbar spine.
Nerve-friendly stretching and mobility work
Gentle hamstring and piriformis stretches to reduce sciatic nerve tension.
Thoracic mobility work to prevent excessive lumbar strain.
Identify and modify pain triggers
Use a hip-hinge technique instead of spinal flexion for lifting.
Adjust sleeping positions to minimize morning stiffness.
Improve standing posture by evenly distributing weight.
Long-Term Strategy: Returning to Martial Arts Stronger Than Before
Progressive strengthening program
Build hip mobility, glute activation, and lower back endurance.
Gradual reintroduction of low-impact activities.
Postural awareness and ergonomics
Adjust workstation for better spinal alignment.
Consider supportive footwear to minimize impact forces.
Pain monitoring and self-assessment
Track symptom patterns (morning vs. evening pain, movement-related pain).
Seek follow-up MRI or specialist consult if symptoms worsen.
A Lesson from Nature: Growth Through Recovery
Matthew’s journey back to martial arts will require tedious attention to detail, posture, and conscious movement. But if he views this as an opportunity to rebuild his foundation, he will not only conquer his back pain but return stronger and more resilient than before.
Just as trees adapt to their environment—strengthening their roots when faced with harsh winds, shedding leaves to conserve energy, and regenerating each spring—so too must we embrace the natural phases of healing and renewal.
Nature has long been our greatest teacher, and by paying attention to its wisdom, we can gain deeper insights into our own well-being. Next time you take a walk in the park, pause for a moment to observe the trees, their roots, their bark, and the life they sustain. You might just find that they are not so different from us after all.
For more information on spinal health and recovery, visit BackFitPro and explore Low Back Disorders by Professor Stuart McGill here.
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