The series continues with this post on the “Lake” Exercise. This exercise, which is typically taught second, is an excellent way to stretch the legs and the associated joints: knees, ankles and hips.
“Lake” Exercise (호수)
Color: White
Element: Metal
Season: Autumn
Chinese Name: Tui
Directional Relationship: South East
Familial Relationship: Youngest Daughter
Directions for Executing “Lake”
Step to the left with right foot, crossing right left in front of left. Step out with left foot, uncrossing legs. Shift weight to left leg and raise arms parallel to ground, palms down. Turn right foot out 180 degrees and turn hands palms up. Circular step right with left foot. Circular step right with right foot. Shift weight to right leg. Drop arms and repeat two more times. Step to the left with right foot, crossing right leg in front of left. Step out with left foot, uncrossing legs. Shift weight to left leg. Step to right with left foot, crossing left leg in front of right. Step out with right foot, uncrossing legs. Shift weight to right leg and raise arms parallel to ground, palms down. Turn left foot out 180 degrees and turn hands palms up. Circular step left with right foot. Circular step left with left foot. Shift weight to left leg. Drop arms and repeat two more times.
Note: “Lake” is extended on a line parallel to the wall that the practitioner initially faces. Chest should always face the same direction unless a circular step is being executed.
Something to think about….