Perfect Poise, Perfect Life
Bring your body into balance and revolutionise your life
By Noel Kingsley
Publisher Hodder Mobius
AVAILABLE HERE
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Puddles and heels
We visited Bath in Somerset at the weekend for the atmosphere and fun of their German styled Christmas Market. The chalet styled stalls, lights and trees around the Cathedral in the Georgian square are so pretty but it's also probably the busiest day of the year for this city that's quite accustomed to hosting hoards of visitors who may come any other time to see the famous 18th century Royal Crescent and all the other beautiful buildings and parks associated with the times of Jane Austen.
The weather however was the worst that can be imagined with torrential rain and wind as a prelude to the fore-casted storm with 90mph winds. But I was well and truly dressed for the occasion; at least so I thought, until I felt the most unusual squelching and soggy sensation from my right foot. Closer inspection revealed the sole had completely split so water underfoot of which there was plenty, just came up through to such an extent I was virtually paddling. New shoes and socks were instantly required so I purchased a pair that would be stout enough for the awful weather.
But you may know that I've been an enthusiast of shoes with no heals and in particular the Vivo Barefoot range ( I should add that the shoes that split were not Vivo's!) which help you feel every little pebble ( mini foot massage with every step!) and are completely flat. So wearing heavier shoes with a heel felt quite strange and they upset my normal balance. I was again reminded of how high heels (and these are no more than a modest heal for a man) can tilt you forwards so one arches the back tightening the hamstrings and can easily cause overall strain. I consciously had to adjust my balance to cope with them in order to keep my lower back free and relaxed and maintain upright poise.
When wearing high heels it's good to keep your weight back over your ankles and avoid leaning forwards. Try to release your lower back so it is not arched; this may feel like you are 'dropping your bum', but actually you probably just not 'picking it up' in the way that high heels often encourage. Also take smaller strides. If you want to read more about wearing high heels click here or about 'How long is your stride?'
If we're going to do a day of Christmas shopping it's good to look after ourselves so although we may complete the task of buying so many presents, we do not cause ourselves personal or physical harm in the process. We don't want Christmas shopping to be a pain in the neck or back! .....We had a great time, despite the weather. :-)
