‘Makko Ho’ stretching exercises to rebalance your body
STRETCHES TO REBALANCE
YOUR HEALTH
STRETCHES BASED ON THE FIVE ELEMENTS IN ORIENTAL MEDICINE Each of the exercises is associated with one of the five elements and its corresponding organs. Regular stretching can help maintain a balance between these elements.
METAL Stretches to strengthen the Lung and Large intestines
Clasp your thumbs behind your back. Stretch and bend. Hold the position for a moment and then slowly return.
METAL
Breathe in and then breathe out as you start the movement.
EARTH Stretches to strengthen the Stomach and Spleen
Kneel with your hands on your thighs. Lean back and put your hands behind to support. Lean the head back further until you feel resistance. Hold for a moment and then slowly return.
EARTH
FIRE Stretches to strengthen the Heart and Small intestines
FIRE Sit with your soles touching each other and grasp your toes. Lean forward while pushing outwards on your legs with your elbows. Hold and then slowly return.
When you hold position. Breathe in and out 3 times
WATER Strengthening the Kidney and Bladder
WATER
Sit cross-legged and put your left hand on your right knee and vice versa. Lean forward and push downwards and outwards with your arms. Hold and then return.
Stop when you feel resistance – don’t overstretch
FIRE Stretches to strengthen the Pericardium & Triple burner
FIRE Sit with your legs outstretched in front and your arms straight above your head. Lean forwards trying to keep your back straight. Hold when you reach resistance and then return slowly.
WOOD Stretches to strengthen the Liver & Gall bladder
WOOD Sit with your legs spread and your arms above your head, hands interlocked. Keep looking at your other leg and twist towards your foot. Hold and slowly return.
THE BOOK OF ORIENTAL MEDICINE: A Complete Self-Treatment Guide by Clive Witham
Clive Witham is an acupuncturist and health educator based in North Africa.
For more information go to www.oriental-medicine.org
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