“Be where your feet are”
Famous Biblical Proverb
Most physical problems are not due to human design, but how we use it. There are more than 200 bones and 350 joints in the human body. That’s a lot of things that can go awry. How can one keep track of it all? The key is to learn about how the different parts work both independently, and as a part of a whole. Dr. Feldenkrais created more than a thousand movement lessons for people to discover how to work and function at their best.
We all know the importance of balance, especially as we get older. While strength and flexibility play a role, there is more to the balance story. Otherwise gymnasts would also be the best surfers, ice skaters and skateboarders. Clearly, the ability to organize all those bones and joints into effective and efficient action is a key ingredient of balance.
Balance and stability starts where the feet meet the ground. The feet are probably the most complex structure in the body. Each foot has 26 bones and 33 joints. This enables the foot to be mobile enough to adapt to uneven terrain and strong enough to support the weight of our bodies.
Unfortunately, culture, fashion and societal norms make the difficult job of feet even harder. High heels, thick socks and tight shoes change how our feet function. In time, dysfunctional use creates structural damage (hammer toes, corns, bunions). Fortunately, it is possible to improve. The first step is to be where your feet are.
How do you be where your feet are? The answer is simple but not easy: pay attention to how you use your feet and its connection to your whole being. This August, S3NSE will spotlight the area between the knees and toes in its group movement lessons. Be where your feet are so you may reach towards the sky.