Spiraling Strength: A Shoulder Flow for Mobility and Ease
The shoulders are one of the most versatile joints in the body. They’re capable of extraordinary freedom—pressing, pulling, lifting, and reaching in multiple directions. But with that freedom often comes feelings of instability or tension. Many people experience shoulders that feel tight, restricted, or vulnerable.
One way to bring ease and resilience back into the shoulder joint is to explore its natural spiraling action. Rather than thinking of the shoulder as moving only “up and down” or “forward and back,” it’s more useful to feel how the arm curves, circles, and rotates.
This short flow sequence is designed to help you experience:
How movement initiated from the hands can ripple into the shoulders
The way the elbows and shoulders contribute to circular actions
Rotational transitions that integrate the shoulder with the spine and hips
A finishing collarbone-to-hand sweep that brings awareness to the upper body
No equipment is needed—just some space on the floor and a few minutes of your time.
Why Spiraling Matters
Joints are not designed to move in straight lines. They arc, spiral, and trace circular paths. When we train these kinds of movements, we strengthen the tissues that support them, improve joint mobility, and enhance the body’s ability to respond to the unexpected.
For the shoulders, this translates into:
Greater ease in pressing and pulling motions
Better support for overhead movements
A more integrated connection between the arms, torso, and spine
A reduction in the “stiff” or “stuck” feeling that can accumulate from repetitive use
Whether you’re a mover, athlete, dancer, or simply someone who wants your shoulders to feel free and capable, practicing spiraling actions can create noticeable change.
Try the Flow
Follow along with the short video here:
After you complete the sequence, take a moment to notice:
Do your shoulders feel freer or lighter?
Do you sense more connection from your arms into your torso?
How does your breathing feel after moving through the flow?
Movement creates more movement. The more we explore these patterns, the more our bodies learn to access them naturally in daily life.
If you try this flow, I’d love to hear how your shoulders feel afterwards—leave a comment or share your experience.