Nanba Balance Techniques: the Art of Resetting

Here we show the importance of balance exercises in resetting and reconnecting the body. I explain three different experiments that can help improve balance and flexibility. The first experiment involves focusing on the more flexible side of the body to teach the less flexible side how to move. The second experiment suggests a different approach to stretching forward and backward to avoid tension in the back of the knees. The third experiment involves warming up the hip joint before walking to improve the gliding sensation and create a lighter feeling in the hips and pelvis. We conclude by emphasizing the importance of incorporating these exercises into your daily routines to improve movement, balance, and overall well-being.

Twisting the Body Right and Left

An easy way to check and reset the balance of the body is to try twisting the body slowly to one side and then the other. Don’t force the stretch, but rather see how far it can move comfortably, noting the place on the wall that your arm points to. After doing the stretch then release the arms and lower back to return to center. Perform the movement slowly so that you can see which side feels easier. Then repeat the stretch on the easier side three times, engaging the whole body down to the legs each time, and releasing the arms and lower back to return to center. Then repeat just once on the side that was less easy the first time, and note your improved flexibility by how far the arm turns.

Forward and Back

Bend the body forward while slightly bending your knees. See how far your can comfortably lower your hands without stretching your arms or the back of your legs, noting how far your fingers are from the floor. Your weight shifts back on your heels. Then place your hands below the hip joint and push your hips forward, letting your weight shift forward on the balls of your feet. See how far back you can stretch noting what part of the ceiling you can see. After comparing front and back to see which side is easier, repeat the easier side three times, and then compare the opposite side just once. You should notice an improvement in flexibility on the side that was less easy the first time.

Hip Rotation

The hip joint can be loosened by placing the hands on the hips and rotating your pelvis clockwise and counterclockwise. Don’t aim for a perfect oval, but rather try to find which parts of the oval move more or less smoothly. Slow down and ease your way through, or even slide past the areas that don’t feel so smooth. You can extend your range of movement by placing the left and then the right foot forward.

William Reed