An Important Topic: Foot Health

There are so many ailments that stem from the limitations that we have placed on our bodies, either structural (as those provided by shoes), or from our habits. These habits include either a lack of total body movement, or an over-dependence on limited muscular patterns.

~ Katy Bowman

Why does foot health matter? You put your feet into shoes that are comfortable to you and go on your merry way. What is the problem?

Well, there might not be an obvious problem with your feet. And then as you think about it, you remember that you have either knee pain and/or back pain. But what does that have to do with my shoes? Plenty.

There are a multitude of variables that you might not be aware of when choosing a shoe that is right for you. For starters, most shoes have some sort of raised heel, and this may be less obvious than you think. Also, how many hours a day do you spend in shoes? If your shoes are too tight, what is that pressure doing to the intrinsic muscles of your feet, and more specifically your toes? If you have any sort of balance issues,this would be important information to know.

Just like a house needs a strong foundation, our body's foundation, our feet, must be strong, as well. If our feet turn out when we stand and walk that will have impact on everything up this closed chain. And then just the act of foot turn-out places unnecessary strain on the 'great toe' which may cause bunions to form. If that wasn't enough, weight placement on the foot effects the pelvis which in turn effects the back.......you see where I am going with this?

So, yes, what you do with your feet, including what you put your feet into, effects your body. A simple statement with profound consequences.  

Wow! That is a lot to ponder. Good, that's the first step towards a healthier lifestyle.

The 'foot alignment and health' class I am going to teach will focus on the foot because I believe it is one of the easier variable to change and the benefits are many. Once you understand the basic biomechanics of your foot in relation to your whole body's health, you can make educated decisions that have a ripple effect. I have been studying Katy Bowman's work on "Nutritious Movement" and I would love to share her information plus my 21-year study of Yoga, Ayurvedic Medicine, and anatomy.

Interested in learning more?  I will be teaching in Rossville and Lawrence, a 2-hour class that will present easy-to-follow information on foot anatomy and biomechanics and its direction relation to health, daily stretches that you can do almost anywhere, and advice on what shoes are best for your overall health and well-being.

I truly believe that this information is vital and everyone should have it. If you want me to teach at your library, fitness center, shoe store, or community center than email me. 

Our bodies want to heal. Come learn how to be proactive in this process.

~ Namaste`

Cat

 yoginiofoz@gmail.com