In search of a Mothers garden
... a joint and is a return from flexion; and to go beyond normal extension is to hyperextend in that area. Hyperextension is a common problem in dance, particularly in the knees and lower back. Rotation is a twisting movement around a line or long axis that runs through the center of the bony segment being twisted. Rotation is possible in triaxial joints such as the shoulder and hip and also occurs between the separate bones or vertebrae of the spine. B. Flexion- we use this during warm-up and we first find our alignment and then bend over using eight counts. We also use this when doing a demi plie. We bend our knees pressing towards the floor. We use extension when we do our kicks. We start with a straight leg (slightly bended) and then we bend and kick and return back to a straight leg. Hyperextension is used when we go down on all fours and walk forward using our hand until our back are pressed in while we look up at the ceiling. Rotation is used when we do an exercise that pushes the arm back and forth as if we were moving through whipped cream while bending also. 5) In correct alignment, a straight line can be visualized as going through a series of points when the body is viewed in profile. This line, which is sometimes known as the line of gravity, goes behind the ear, through the center of the shoulder and hip joints, a little in front of the ankle, and down the foot. From the viewpoint of the front or back of the body the shoulders and hips should appear level in a well-aligned body. The knees should be at the same level from the floor, with the weight placed evenly on both feet. 6) The center of the body needs to be lifted away from gravity. The center of the body is found at the center of gravity, the densest point in the body, located in the middle of the pelvic area. 7) To increase ability while balancing such positions it is important to keep the center of gravity above the supporting base. This is also important while performing various leg gestures when standing on one foot. 8) Directing the body’s energies aids in balancing because whenever one part of the body moves away from center, an opposing part has to be stretched in an opposite direction to maintain balance. It is important to send energy upward and out while pressing down with the same similar energy. 9) When performing the plie correctly, you must lift the center away from the floor as already discussed. Second, the head and shoulders must remain above the hips, with the knees over the middle toes when the body is viewed in profile. In a demi plie, the heels come off the floor as the center is lowered downward, except in second position where the heels remain on the floor throughout the action. During the ascent from a grand plie, the heels should be pressed to the floor so that you move through demi plie. A releve is easily accomplished by lifting the center to the ceiling and pressing down through the legs against the floor. 10) When beginning a dance class, it is important to be present with both body and mind. Both components need to be working together. Your body should be in a state that is ready to work and your mind should be focused on accomplishing su...