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All 35 ExercisesJoint Preparation
#9Paths: Path A, Path B, Path CBook Reference: Chapter 6

Shoulder Roll and Chest Open

Prepare the shoulders for gentle arm movement.

Starting Position

Sit or stand comfortably. Arms relaxed, chin level.

Step-by-Step Movement Instructions

  1. 1Lift your shoulders gently toward your ears.
  2. 2Roll the shoulders back and let them settle. Do this five times, without squeezing them down.
  3. 3Bring the arms forward to a comfortable height, elbows soft.
  4. 4Open the arms a little to the sides, then return. Repeat three times.

Practice Duration

Five shoulder rolls and three small openings.

Breathing Cue

Breathe in as the arms open and out as they return, or use natural breathing.

Supported & Seated Variation (Path A)

Sit throughout. Keep the hands lower than shoulder height, or leave out the opening.

What to Notice During Practice

Notice whether a shoulder creeps upward as you open the arms.

When to Stop Immediately:

Shoulder pain, chest pressure, numbness, or symptoms down an arm.

Sit down safely if you feel light-headed or unsteady. There is never any reason to push through pain or discomfort.

“Let the shoulders move easily. Pulling them hard backward won't improve the exercise.”

Video Demonstration

Production Update

Official video demonstrations for Exercise 9 are currently being filmed with certified senior practitioners.

In accordance with our reader honesty pledge, we never display unchecked or unrelated stock video. Please use the approved written steps and diagram above.

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