Treasure Hunt Week #6 (August 12, 2008)

By Lesley Tinker on Jul 17 2008 - 6:42pm

Welcome to week #6 of the NiaDivas' Summer Treasure Hunt to find the magical you.

But first...Week #5's treasure was the HIP. How'd you do? Experiences to share? Comments welcome.

Now...Onward to Week #6.

Your Body's Treasure: Clue #6

By design I am a dangling string of 26 individual pieces that collaborate and move in all directions. I am elegant with my three curves that run from the center of your skull into your pelvis. Imagine me as a string of pearls able to flex and twist, lengthen and round, giving you ease and efficiency in all that you do. I Iove the Joy of Movement.

I Am Energized By...

The Spinal Roll. Practicing the spinal roll improves your spines strength and flexibility. It is terrific for self-healing the spine and back muscles

To do the Spinal Roll. Standing with your feet apart (A-stance), inhale deeply and look up and lengthen the front of your body. Slide your hands down your thighs, as you begin sitting back and down as if aiming for a low stool. In this semi-squat position, release your spine and head and hang like a rag doll over your legs. Then slowly round up using the push of your legs and the suppleness of your spine.

Additional Nia moves to energize this joint include: Head and eye movements, watching your hands while you dance, spine undulation and the shimmy.

In Every Day Life...

This week sense joy throughout and within each curve of this joint set as you walk. By floating your head to the clouds, you'll allow the spine to dangle freely. Imagine your head filled with helium as you sit, providing you with the energy of length and support within the core of your body. Marvel at your spine's freedom as you look behind you, look up to the sky or down as you work in the garden. Listen to your spine when it needs a change in any position you are holding for too long. Keep it moving!

We wish you a pleasant week of continuing self-discovery and finding the gems of your body!

Until next week,
Nia Divas Lesley Tinker and Jill Pagano
Certified Nia Instructors
Inspirational Fitness for an Extraordinary You