Chicago - April 06, 2005

Touch and Go

Meridian Touch

You’ve StairMastered a million steps, spun your wheels in spin class, and put a cool 10,000 miles on the treadmill.

And still you feel like you’ve gotten nowhere.

If you’re stuck in a gym rut, take a break from your routine. Meridian Touch, a form of Japanese yoga based on the principles of Asian medicine (and a predecessor of tai chi), replaces your usual “Just Do It” mantra with a blissful emphasis on relaxation.

The stretches work the energy lines of the body that correlate with the pressure points used in shiatsu. Each one also represents an element (metal, earth, fire, water, wood), so you’ll gain insight into your own constitution, like why you prefer fall to spring or constantly crave salty foods.

The exercises can be done with a group, alone, or one-on-one with an instructor. Whatever you choose, it’ll help you get to where you want to be.

Which may turn out to be exactly where you are.

Group classes at Equinox Fitness Club Lincoln Park, 1750 North Clark Street, between Eugenie and Menomonee Streets (312-254-4000), or schedule a private session (773-347-1130 or meridiantouch.com).