Lift and Release

The motion of rise and fall is a natural movement that occurs all around us. We feel and see examples every day, from the rising and setting of the sun to the lift and fall of a leaf in the wind.

As we think about rise and fall in our body, we think about elongating, stretching ourselves, filling ourselves with air, and then releasing, falling into relaxation.

A gentle rise and fall is a soft and effective motion that allow our bodies to tune in, harness energy and align. Whether it’s at the beginning of your day, greeting a new morning, or at the end of the night, centering in a place of peace before sleep, allow yourself a few minutes each day to experience the natural movement of rise and fall, lift and release.

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Distribute your weight evenly in your feet and feel sturdy and comfortable in your stance. Breathe in. As you exhale, allow your shoulders to relax, feeling them fall as you release any tension. Breathe in again, allowing your arms to rise outward from your body and over your head. Stretch your fingers to the sky feeling the extension and connection as you align.

On an exhale, slowly bend forward allowing your arms to fall with your body and hang toward the ground. Feel the release in your body as you shift your energy and relax into a downward stretch.

There is power in simple, intentional movement. Repeat your rise and fall stretch as many times as you like, flowing slowly and mindfully through the movement as your body rises and falls with your breath.