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Walking
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Figure 8. Another good hip stretcher is to stride normally, but move in a somewhat tight figure 8 instead of a straight line. Feel your outside hip stretch while the inside hip rests.
Quickstep. To loosen up your feet and ankles, take tiny steps as quickly as possible.
Concentrate on quickly rocking your feet from heel to toe. Remember to
stay slightly on the outside of your foot.
Walking is not only good exercise, it increases well being just by virtue
of allowing you time to get back in tune with your body, and notice the
world around you. A brisk walk can produce a sensation of euphoria that
results from better blood flow, decreased muscle tension, and many hormonal
and chemical changes resulting from exercise. A bedtime stroll is one of
the best antidotes for insomnia, but don't make this your exercise for the
day. You may be "warm" for up to 5 hours after walking 1 or 3
miles. Lastly, all walking should be performed with belly breathing. Most
people who have not consciously shifted their breath into their bellies
breathe in their chests. Chest breathing is shallow, and as you get tense,
your breathing tends to get higher in your chest. When inhaling, you
should feel your stomach rise, then your upper abdomen, and finally your
chest. Then exhale by letting your stomach relax. This may feel strange
at first, but it is very relaxing and provides more oxygen to the tissues.
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A graduate of Bastyr University in Seattle, she completed both the Naturopathic and Acupuncture/Oriental Medicine programs. Her preceptor work (similar to residencies) took place in Seattle, West Virginia and China, 
