Taking It Around

by Cheng-Ling Chen — December 7, 2007

We gals have full, feminine hips that balance us. They are our verve and curve. While we focus on strengthening biceps, tightening abs, or toning glutes, we hardly give a thought to the hips that cradle us. I didn't realize how much I had been neglecting my hips until I started doing hip circles in my dance class. Here is what we do in class:

Standing tall with our feet under our hips, we bend the knees slightly and slowly rock our hips side to side. We draw easy little circles with our hips. As thighs begin to warm up and hip joints loosen, we build larger circles, moving slowly and fluidly. We close our eyes as our hips make sensual swirls, enveloping the space all around us.

Try taking your hips around. Put on a song you like, with a fast or slow beat, it doesn't matter. Stand steady on your feet. Close your eyes and let your hips take you on a journey. Relax your shoulders and neck. Push your hips farther and farther out. Don't be shy about doing it with attitude. Put your tushie into it. Change direction and go the other way. Feel the warmth in your core, building a flame that invigorates you.

As you circle around, switch off your brain. Follow the pace that your body wants to go. Feel the breath weave in and out of you as you complete another circle. Notice how great it feels to stretch out your hips, lower back, spine, and belly. Give yourself this moment. Isn't it delicious to be at home in this vase that holds you?