Free Your Joints

Muscles move joints. Moving the muscles keeps the joints lubricated and keeps the muscles strong enough to build the smooth function of the joint. In this simple series of movements, you’ll exercise each of your joints in a specific order and under no load.

The yoga therapy approach is about small changes in movement patterns repeated frequently. To use this program, plan to spend about 20 minutes a day, maybe two times per day. As you become more familiar with the movements, you will require less time. But please don’t rush the movements. It is essential that you follow the breath cues.

Basic Practice: Chair Version

Very helpful for those with physical restrictions or pain, such as arthritis, joint replacements or reduced fitness, this exercise series utilizes a chair. That means no getting up and down from the floor!

Version Two: Some weight bearing on knees

Here’s a different take on the same movements. This would be a great warm up series prior to your sport or other exercise, as well as a great good morning routine on its own.

Lying Down Version: Suitable for Bed

This version is entirely done lying down. We show how to get up and down from the floor using a chair (no weight on your sore knee!) but you can also follow along in bed.

Version Four: Standing (most active)

When you are good with balancing on one leg briefly and weight bearing on the knees, this version is a nice change. It is a complete workout as it is, or use this warm up as a prelude to full yoga postures or your exercise of choice.

For more information, questions or to get Cheryl’s advice on specific issues, please contact her. You may also be interested in creating a regular yoga practice with her in group classes. She’s always happy to connect with fellow yogis!