Reaching Flow State through Grace on the Ice

As a figure skater, we are always trying to reach the point of grace. In order to achieve this state, there are many unconscious and conscious factors that the skater must learn and be aware of. Fluidity on the ice can be created my bending the knees and allowing the body to relax and get into the ice.
Using the breath can help get more into the ice and relax the body. A feeling of alignment should be felt, for example, your knees are over your ankles, hips over knees, head over shoulders, etc. While stretching your arms and upper body, almost like your head is reaching for the sky and your arms out towards the boards, while maintaining a strong core and connection to the ice and bend in the knees.
I like to tell my skaters that they have warm honey dripping on their shoulders, so their shoulders are relaxed and down but their neck and head is stretched up. Posture is a key essential in reaching the state of grace. Once a skater feels grace on the ice, they will also tap into the flow state. Let go of the fear of doing something wrong and embrace creativity, the sky is the limit. Enjoy yourself and have fun!
Until next time skaters.
-L
