The Mighty Big Toe
I have rekindled a fascination with the big toe. I mentioned said fascination to my friend, Tzahi Moskovitz, to which he commented, “The big toe is very smart.” Indeed. It’s accessibility allows for a focused attention whose effects permeate up through the legs. In my own practice and exploration I’ve found a direct link between my big toes and my inner thighs. My abdominal work feels more grounded, my inversions feel lighter, and my backbends feel amazing. Here are some exercises I’ve been playing with to awaken my connection to this source of power (who knew)!
Love Your Serratus
The Serratus Anterior is probably my favorite muscle. I love how its name describes its appearance (the zig-zag shape it makes from the scapulae to the ribs resembles a serrated knife). I love how it helps to stabilize the scapulo-thoracic joint. I love a strong, intelligent Serratus can create more support in postures like Chaturanga, Adho Mukha Svanasana, and Handstand. Being a lover of the Serratus, I (falsely) assumed that mine was rock solid. A few handstands with my palms turned out 90 degrees revealed that there’s some (ahem) room for improvement. I’ve been on a serratus-strengthening mission ever since.