‘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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