By MICHAEL SZYMANSKI, NASM, CES

Subject: Sore soles of feet.

Practice: Kneel down on all fours. Reach behind and gently press the middle of your calf with your thumb. Find the sore spot about six to eight inches above the heel. Press firmly for about 30 seconds. Get up and walk around. Repeat on other side if needed.

Theory: A sore is often caused by a tight soleus muscle in the calf pulling on the pad of the foot. Releasing this muscle by pressing this energy point provides relief.

Comment: Don’t press hard at first but as the sore spot releases increase thumb pressure slightly until that soreness disappears.

Note: Muscle or joint pain below the waist are often the result of nerve compression in the low back. Although this particular practice does not deal with that, it can offer some temporary relief. More on this later.

— Michael Szymanski has taught yoga classes at Bainbridge, Hansville, Kingston and Poulsbo studios for 15 years. Contact him at kingstonyogacenter@gmail.com.