Feet: An Accurate Barometer
Today, let’s clarify one place of contact - the relationship between the feet and the floor. I have found that the feet are a really accurate barometer for the body’s organization for movement. (there is that word again, movement!). I have become completely fascinated with feet and how they move because they are game-changers!
The way the feet contact the ground is an indication of the body’s readiness for movement. When we optimize this relationship every muscle and all of our soft tissue becomes more accessible. Consider all of the tiny movements you utilize for nuance in your playing, slight adjustments in the embouchure, adjusting pressure of a finger on the bow, and there are a million more!
As you read this, notice how your feet are contacting the ground. Where do they touch? Where don’t they touch? Where is the weight concentrated? Heels? Outside of foot? Balls of Feet? Inside of foot?
Let’s reorganize! The feet’s amazing design includes three key places we can calibrate to release limiting tension (throughout the body) and uncover movement freedom.
Looking at the bottom of your foot, find the ball of your big toe, ball of your fourth toe and the front of your heel bone. Actually touch them. This is your tripod, I also refer to it as home base, a place you can begin from and move through over and over as you play. Touch the tripod on the bottom of your other foot.
Now place your feet on the floor and equalize the contact of the tripod. Allow the sole of your foot to soften to the floor and enjoy the contact between the three places and the floor. Notice how your legs and torso feel. Is there any change in the way you sit or stand?
If you have flat feet, equalizing the tripod will take more attention and training and you may need support. Play with it, get to know your habits, get to know this home base.
Bring your growing awareness of your feet into your playing. Observe weight shifts that take place as you play, as well as habits. For example, do you lift the inside of your foot to play high or soft? Do you shift into your heel when you are low on air? Observe without judgment and invite yourself to recalibrate the contact of the feet over and over.
What is playing like when the soles of your feet are released and you feel the connection of the bones that are the tripod? Is there anything new in playing? Things you might notice are changes in breathing, arm movement, embouchure movement, onset of sound, clarity of articulation.
Today, go forth and enjoy the contact of your feet with the ground in whatever you do. See what they lead you to discover…