Stretching exercises to lengthen your limbs & reduce stress today

Do you stretch your body throughout the day? Today we are going to cover some convenient ways to ease tension while gaining flexibility and making stretching a part of your routine. 

Depending upon where you are at in your day, here are a few stretching options for you to try. 

While the best time to stretch is when muscles are warm—say, after a walk or a workout—stretching is so beneficial that whenever you can squeeze it in, you should.

1. Calming Commute – While at a red light, you can keep your hands on the wheel and bring your shoulders to your ears, then release them as you draw them down and back. This is great for a long or short commute as it releases tension in the shoulders and neck.

2. Computer Stretch – If you are sitting in front of your screen and hunched over, it’s a great time for a stretch. Take a deep breath and reach one arm overhead to create a big arc as you do a side stretch. Stand up and hold your chair if you need the extra balance and support. Hold for 15 – 30 seconds and then repeat on the other side. You can also do each stretch for five or six deep breaths, so you don’t feel rushed.

3. Netflix Neck Tilt– If you’ve been binging your favorite show or even been getting more screen time than usual, this is a good stretch to help release tension. The good news is you can even do this while you are watching TV. Here’s how:

• • You can stay seated and move slowly.
  • Move your chin towards your chest and hold for 15 seconds
  • Relax and slowly lift your head back up.
  • Tilt your neck towards the ceiling, hold for 10-15 seconds and return to the starting position.
  • Repeat several times. You can also tilt your head to each shoulder.

Here’s how a few of our providers fit fitness into their daily routines.