Okay, my right hip is getting to be a real pain in the butt. It has been bothering me for about three years--a lot of tightness in my right iliopsoas in addition to a very tight inner thigh. I can just feel the muscles and ligaments tugging and almost itching when I move into some stretches after warming up. Ugggg. This injury has been an interesting challenge for me to negotiate as a mover, dancer and movement teacher. I've tried physical therapy and chiropractic work, both of which have helped, but due to relocating recently, I have yet to find one here in Salt Lake.
Anyways, I thought I would use this little injury as a way to maybe learn a few things. Like, for example, how much tension I hold in my right hip and don't even realize it!! I'll be driving and all of the sudden, I'll take my foot off the gas pedal and feel my right hip flexor let go. Why was it even working in the first place! I'll be sitting down, watching TV or reading a book and I'll notice myself gripping my right hip. The poor little guy--he needs a break. Clearly, my muscles must be guarding against an injury, or perhaps I have developed some holding patterns. I have done a lot of gentle moving and strengthening to bring back life and vitality to my little right hip so I know I am doing what I can to take care of it. Of course, I could always do more.
Dear Laura,
I'm sorry I am so tight and that I cause you pain, but sheesh do you use me a lot. I mean, can you give me a break. Why don't you try choreographing something using your left side first for a change. Mr. Left Side feels left out anyways (he told me this the other day after rehearsal). Plus, I really think you need to seriously investigate and invest in finding a chiropractor/massage therapist or PT that can help me out. I know you think you can do everything, but I'm telling you, you can't. Give me a break. Even right now, why are you squishing me into a crossed legged position. Ahhh, that's better, thanks. I have another idea, I think the back side of your right leg is a little bit weak--I mean, have you seen that thing try to do a hamstring curl? No wonder I'm so tired out. Strengthen the backside of you, girlfriend and release the front--especially me!! I'm dying over here. Oh, yeah and your low back is a bit tight--it sure likes to work a lot. Try doing some pelvic clocks everyday for a while and see how that feels. Yoga has been really helpful--you really need to be more regular with your practice, by the way. I know you are a busy lady, but it feels so good and it really gives us a chance to get along with each other, reconnect and communicate. I love it when you are able to let your right femur release into the deep crease of me, the front of your hip. Boy, does that feel nice. Gentle twists give me a nice sense of unwinding--like drinking a fine glass of wine. Speaking of wine, you deserve a glass. Thanks for listening. I am already feeling better.
With love, dedication and understanding,
Right Hip
p.s. I'm not mad at you.
