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Centering & Mobility

Ankle Circles

Ankle MobilityAnkle CirculationFoot Flexibility

Benefits

  • Improves ankle mobility
  • Increases circulation in feet
  • Reduces ankle stiffness
  • Prevents ankle swelling

How to do Ankle Circles

  1. Sit toward front of chair
  2. Lift right foot slightly off floor
  3. Hold chair for balance if needed
  4. Rotate right ankle in clockwise circles
  5. Complete 10 circles
  6. Reverse to counterclockwise direction
  7. Complete 10 circles
  8. Lower right foot, lift left foot
  9. Repeat same pattern with left ankle
  10. Keep leg still, movement only in ankle

Breathing

  • Breathe naturally throughout
  • Stay relaxed
  • Don't hold breath

Repetitions: 10 circles each direction, both ankles.

Safety notes

Lifting one foot and rotating the ankle in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions

Modifications

Make it easier

  • Make smaller circles
  • Keep foot on floor, just roll ankle
  • Reduce repetitions to 5 each way
  • Hold chair with both hands for stability

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Moving entire leg instead of just ankle
  • Forcing range of motion
  • Making jerky movements
  • Losing balance without support

Exercises to pair with this one

Ankle Circles sits in the centering & mobility part of the practice. These poses work the same areas, so they make a natural next step in the same session — or a gentler alternative on a day when this one feels like too much.

New to seated practice? Start with the 90-day programme overview and read the safety guidelines first. If you have a diagnosed condition or any doubt about whether this pose suits you, check with your healthcare provider before trying it.