EVER TRIED WALKING BACKWARDS?
Walking backwards is great for your balance and proprioception – your sense of movement and where you are in space. It makes you connect with your feet and the earth. Walking backwards exercises muscles in different ways, freeing up some and strengthening others. You observe your surroundings differently; the view is different and you take more notice of your movements. This all leads to a mindfulness, a being in the present.
Start with an even surface. Make sure your pathways are clear. To begin with this will feel strange but your remarkable body will get used to it surprisingly quickly. Tentative steps make way for more confident movements. Check in with the sensations in your feet. The subtle movements that they make for you, constantly adjusting to maintain balance. Clever things the feet.
Once you feel ready you can progress to a more uneven path. Watch how your feet compensate for the change in terrain. The more you can get sensations through your feet the better. The feedback you receive lets your body calculate the minute alterations which keep you upright. Barefoot is best, connection with the earth and all that. I love my @vivobarefoot. You definitely want good comfortable flat footwear.
Maybe progress and try walking with your eyes closed – being careful, of course. It intensifies your other senses and is good practice for them as a result… This is mindful movement.
Jo runs regular mindful movement classes in person and online.
Private consultations also available.
Some balance tips for you…
Further reading…
http://www.wildyogis.co.uk/what-is-mindful-movement/
