Monday is menosukhi day - the one in which I go all sentimental. For a few weeks this means you are sharing my memories of two darling creatures, Jade Dog MacWoof and Jasper Cat MacMeow.

Pose of contemplation

My name is Jade Dog MacLean and I would like to introduce you to my stretching regime, which I like to call

DOGASTHENICS©

Take your time and don't forget to breathe as you go!

BEFORE RISING FROM BED.

Morning has arrived.

Make no sudden moves.  Take a deep, slow breath in, then out.

If not already on your back, roll over. Hold each of the following moves for a count of five.

Tighten the muscles between your shoulders, as if pulling the 'blades' together.

Now, including the fingers and toes, stretch towards the foot of the bed, with the arms and legs raised enough to have the elbows and knees slightly clearing the mattress. Point those toes and fingers! 

At the same time, stretch your head back, extending the front neck.

Next, put your arms out to the sides and imagine you are trying to touch each side of the bed. Keep the elbows straight with the hands dropped down. 

Bring your chin down onto your chest this time, stretching the back of the neck.

Get out of bed and take one step away. Stretch each leg in turn backwards to touch the edge of the bed with the sole of your foot.

Now shake all over vigourously.

Have a good day.

This routine not only ensures the static muscles are woken up properly, it gets the circulation moving and the body properly aereated. It is important to do this each morning. But the principles are the same if you find yourself being sedentary for any length of time during the day...or in the evening after a stint in front of the telly!

Before getting up from your chair, lift your feet up level with your knees and hold your arms out level with them. Bring the toes and fingers upwards then imagine you are pressing into the wall on the opposite side of the room. Don't forget the vigourous shake afterwards!

With respect and tail wags, Jade.


Please visit my friend BOZO and also check out the Canine Chronicles!