Finding a Balance: The Other Side

Greetings! Today we continue with the Finding a Balance series; specifically, we will cover cover balance as it pertains to the left and right sides of the body. When you were a child you learned if you were a "righty" or a "lefty". Whether you started by throwing a ball or trying to hit one, the focus and attention you've showered on your "better half" has had a lasting impact on how you move through the world. You've probably done a good amount of things with your dominant hand that you've never even attempted with the other.

I would like to encourage you to end your one-sided relationship.. with your body. Let both halves have some fun. The extra coordination and strength might come in handy. The practice itself will challenge your brain and refine the efficiency of movement and kinesthetic awareness of both sides of your body. It is something you can practice every day, and here is how to do it.

Start by paying attention to the things you do on a consistent basis. Brushing your teeth. Unlocking and opening the door. Carrying a bag on your shoulder. Stepping over a curb. Stirring with a spoon. Twisting a bottle cap. Taking a drink. More likely than not, you will find that you tend to use the same hand or foot every time.

Step two is as simple as step one. Start to use the other side of your body. Begin with the same regularly occurring routines. For prolonged actions such as brushing your teeth or hair, switch back and forth between your dominant and weaker hands. As you alternate from the more-practiced side to the less-used side, notice the subtle differences that your dominant side has adopted to make the movement more fluid and efficient. Do your best to adopt these motor skills with your off-hand.

4 REASONS TO SWITCH SIDES

-benefits the nervous system as well

         as the musculature of the body

-trains the motor cortex of the brain

-improves balance

-increases capability

For quick actions such as unlocking a door, alternate every time or alternate every other day. As the body adapts to using both sides, try attempting more complex and less often used movements. Try switching sides when cleaning or doing yard/garden work. Switch from side to side if you have to shovel this winter. The goal is to make both sides equally skilled at gross motions, and increase neuromuscular strength and coordination of your less-used half. It will feel a bit awkward at first, but this feeling will dissipate as you continue to ask more of your "off"-hand.

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU DO NOT UNDERTAKE DANGEROUS TASKS WHILE PRACTICING WITH YOUR OFF HAND. Let common sense be your guide. You can stir and mix with either hand while cooking, but you should not use your off-hand for cutting and chopping with a sharp knife. Do not use your off hand when working with hot oils. The same goes for construction and carpentry. Sand something to refinish it with both hands, but do not use power tools with the side that has less coordination. There is no going back from some mistakes, and the purpose of practice is to improve. Remember that there is always a risk versus reward; and certain types of training are dangerous and not practical.