Benefits of Stretching
July 31, 2017
We know that exercise is important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle but did you know that maintaining a healthy exercise routine starts with stretching? If you’ve ever felt too tense during your workout routine or extra sore after, you may need to start stretching.
Stretching before your workout will loosen your muscles and increase your circulation which means a better blood supply to your muscles for a better workout. It will also improve your flexibility and balance giving you a wider range motion which can help you with yoga! Similar to yoga, stretching can also lower stress levels and relieve tension to help your body feel better.
Even if you’re not exercising, stretching is a smart way to begin and end your day. If you’re one of the many people who suffer from back, joint, or muscle pain, stretching can help eliminate the pain while increasing your energy.
You don’t have to make stretching into a production either, it’s very easy to stretch in most places. When you wake up or before you go to bed, you can stretch in bed if you don’t want to stretch on the hard floor. On your bed or on your floor you can sit up and straighten your legs out in front of you and slowly reach towards your legs. If you can, hold your feet and really feel the stretch through your body.
If you’re at a desk throughout the day, sit up straight and reach your hands to the ceiling to get that blood flowing. You can also stretch your shoulders, chest, and back while sitting in your desk chair. Taking periodic walks will also help with the 2 PM slump because, as mentioned earlier, it’ll help with blood flow to keep you awake, alert, and productive.
Try stretching at least 10 minutes a day for a week and see how you feel!