Qigong with Cris Caivano , Jan. 12 - 18, 2025
Strength in Balance
Yesterday’s class sparked a new direction for us to explore. We were working on a balance exercise where, while standing on one leg, you slowly circle the other leg from front to back, and then back around to the front again. It’s very challenging! Afterwards, Sue R. asked “Why is my standing leg so tired?” Her leg was tired because she was doing the exercise correctly! Balance requires strength; Sue had discovered where she needs to do some additional strength training.
Of course, there’s more to balance than simply strength; but the fact is, once we move from two legs to one, the standing leg must be strong enough to hold our entire body’s weight. When we walk, our weight shifts from one leg to the other, resting on one leg 80% of the time. That’s why walking is a good, basic way to maintain balance.
How would a Taoist approach the challenge of improving one’s balance? “Prevent trouble before it arises. Put things in order before they exist. The giant pine tree grows from a tiny sprout,” says the Tao Te Ching. In other words, once you recognize an area of weakness, do specific (perhaps even “tiny”) movements that gently, gradually, and consistently build strength around that area. Do this before that area of weakness turns into a bigger problem and leads to an over-use injury or even a fall.
There is so much more to be explained about the subject of strength, which is why I was commissioned to write the book Strength Training Over 50, Stay Fit and Fabulous (click here to order from Amazon), way back in 2008. Read it if you haven’t already; it’s a primer on how to get strong without getting injured, and why strength training is the key to mobility and flexibility after 50. Also, watch this space for announcements of a future workshop Strength Training for Balance, Qigong Style. Please let me know if you’re interested!
Schedule Notes:
Free, live, in-person/ Zoom Qigong at Millbrook Library: This Friday, January 17 and January 31, 10-11 AM. Open to all, and beginner friendly! Please contact millbrooklibrary.org to register and receive the link if you’re joining on Zoom. Once you register, you will also receive biweekly email reminders when the class is being offered.