The directions we use for exercise have been consistent for decades. The number of exercise types has greatly increased, but the way we describe our body remains limited. We usually refer to one part, describe what to do with that part, and then move on to the next. The focus is often on the results we want in one area, isolating it from the rest of the body.
At first, focusing on one part seems logical — but in truth, it’s very limited. Think of it like learning the alphabet: you know the letters, recognize the sounds, then put them together to create words. A single letter is meaningless without the others to form words. Similarly, isolating one part of the body does not connect you meaningfully to the whole. That’s not how our nervous system works. The body integrates all parts at once, creating a natural coordination that frees us from much of the stiffness, repetitive injuries, and chronic pain many of us experience.
Isn’t it more complicated to focus on many parts of the body while trying to engage one? Surprisingly, it’s actually easier and far more effective. But if we only think our body — instead of working through the kinesthetic sensory feel of our body — then yes, it becomes difficult. The truth is, your body already knows how to move. Think about how much fun it was to move as a child. If you can’t remember, just watch children playing in a schoolyard.
Start to distinguish feeling your body from simply thinking about your body.
Foot on the Ball is one of my favorites! The Miracle Ball Method works through your nervous system giving you relief through sensing your body.
Why Start with the Feet?
Your feet are one area where many of us experience stiffness, aching, or even chronic pain. We often try to “fix” bunions or alignment directly at the feet. But the truth is, your feet are the result of how the rest of your body stands on them. By focusing only on the feet, the rest of the body loses the benefits the feet can provide.
For example, there are many good foot exercises. I see people doing them every day. But let’s add some new directions to a simple foot exercise so your whole body benefits.
Try This Simple Exercise
You’ll need a steady surface such as a kitchen counter. Rest one or both hands lightly for support.
One of the best exercises is simply bending and straightening your legs. But this time, let’s approach it differently:
- As you bend your knees, first notice how you do this. Most of us just push down, placing more pressure on our feet. You are actually going down and up at the same time. Explore that.
- Notice what other parts of your body are doing as you repeat this several times. You may find your whole body collapsing in odd places.
- Are your knees pronating toward each other? Do you feel anything in your hips?
- Do you find yourself holding your breath?
Learning to Move Differently
At first, this way of approaching movement may feel overwhelming. But think of how you learned to read: one letter, then one word, then eventually entire novels — sometimes at rapid speed. It doesn’t seem logical, but your brain adapts beautifully. The same is true for your body. Soon, you’ll feel many more parts working together, helping take the pressure off the areas that are chronically overworked.
We are rarely taught to notice how we do things — only to “fix” them. But you can’t change what you don’t feel. Take your time. Enjoy noticing your body as a partnership. Learn from it.
Just as I explained in the last blog: your body is your medium. It has basic ingredients that make it work. Focusing on one part limits its potential. Learning to notice how you move is one of the key ingredients. Exploring whether you hold your breath is another. Breathing supplies feeling.
Most of us don’t have a problem breathing — we just hold our breath without realizing it, taking in little sips of air as we move. Your body already knows how to breathe.
The Bigger Picture
When you give your body directions that support connection to the whole, you relieve many of the chronic, everyday aches and pains so many of us live with.
I invite you to join me at miracleballmethod.com to learn more. Our membership provides a LIVE monthly class with me on Zoom, along with many recordings and more to choose from.
Enjoy moving every day. Make the transition from the old way of “doing exercise” to working with what your body can teach you.
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