Regaining balance is crucial for everyday activities and for preventing falls, especially as we age or recover from injuries. Here are the 12 best exercises designed to improve balance and overall stability:

1. Single-Leg Stance: Stand behind a chair, holding on for support. Lift one leg and hold the position for 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.

2. Heel-to-Toe Walk: Place the heel of one foot just in front of the toes of the opposite foot each time you take a step. Your heel and toes should touch or almost touch.

3. Balance Walk: Raise arms to sides, shoulder height, choose a spot ahead of you to stay focused on to help keep you steady as you walk.

4. Leg Raises: Holding onto a chair for support, slowly lift one leg to the side, keep your back straight, and avoid tilting your hips.

5. Back Leg Raises: While supporting yourself on a chair, lift one leg straight back without bending your knees or pointing your toes.

6. Standing March: Stand with feet hip-width apart and raise your knees high towards the chest in an alternating fashion.

7. Chair Squats: Stand in front of a chair with feet hip-width apart and slowly lower yourself until you’re almost touching the chair then rise back up.

8. Toe Stands: Stand behind a chair and slowly stand up on your tiptoes, then slowly lower your heels back to the floor.

9. Tai Chi: This martial art consists of slow, deliberate movements that can greatly enhance balance and stability.

10. Yoga: Poses such as Tree Pose or Warrior III are excellent for building core strength and improving balance.

11. Bosu Ball Exercises: Using a Bosu ball (half-circle stability ball) try exercises like standing up straight on the dome side or doing squats.

12. Dance Therapy: Engaging in dance movements can help coordination and balance while offering a fun workout at the same time.

Incorporating these exercises into your routine can lead to significant improvements in balance over time. Be sure to proceed at your own pace and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, especially if balance is already an issue.