Easy Crane Exercise for Good Health

The cranes of longevity have red foreheads and they are often depicted in Chinese

art in a flock, either flying or standing in water with one leg tucked up underneath their bodies. You may also see them beside a pine tree, or with Sau, the god of longevity. The ancients believed that the crane’s unique pose gave it a special ability to survive all kind of diets. They believed its one-legged standing pose stimulated the stomach and internal organs strengthening the digestive, respiratory and circulatory systems.

Try the following exercise, standing on one leg.

•  Stand with the feet together, toes and heels touching
•  Place the sole of one foot on the opposite calf, then slowly work it up to the inner thigh.
•  Raise both hands above your head and inhale as you do this.
•  Join your hands and hold this position for as long as you can.
•  Repeat on the opposite side