This post may contain affiliate links which means when you click on a link and then purchase any item on that site, there is no additional cost to you but I receive a small commission. Thank you for your support.
Research studies have proven without a doubt that there are numerous benefits when we incorporate stretching into our daily routine.
Listed below are a few benefits of stretching, my tips on how to stretch, along with a few beginner stretches to get you started!
My top five reasons to stretch:
-
Prevent injury by increasing flexibility.
-
Feel happier and more positive.
-
Loosens muscles and relieves muscle fatigue.
-
Improve posture.
-
Overall stress relief.
How to Stretch:
-
Only stretch to the point where you feel a slight tension.
-
Relax as you stretch.
-
No bouncing!
-
Breathe slow and in control.
-
No pain!!
Forget the old saying “no pain, no gain.”
Pay attention to your body, pain is an indicator that something is wrong.
Count slowly 10-30 seconds while you stretch. If you are holding your breathe or the mild tension does not ease off as you maintain the stretch you need to ease off.
Three Beginner Stretches:
Stretch #1
Lay on the floor.
Raise your arms above your head.
Stretch your arms and feet in opposite directions as if someone was pulling them.
Grow tall while you inhale.
Hold for five to ten seconds, relax as you exhale.
Repeat two times.
Stretch #2
Sit or stand, maintaining good posture.
Shrug your shoulders up towards your ears.
Hold for five seconds, repeat three times.
Breathe rhythmically.
Check in to ensure you are not clenching.
Stretch #3
Sit, stand or lay down.
Take a deep breathe.
As you breathe out slowly turn your head to the right.
Hold the stretch for three deep breathes.
Rotate your head back to middle facing forward.
Take an even deeper breathe.
Slowly rotate your head left while exhaling.
Hold stretch for three deep breathes
On the third exhale turn you head back to midline.
Check in to ensure you are not tightening any other areas while trying to stretch a specific muscle.
Why I stretch twice a day.
A.M. stretch is a great way to start the day. A morning stretch boosts my energy level by increasing blood flow-promoting a sense of tranquility.
P.M. The evening stretch relaxes my muscles, and alleviates tension which mean a better night’s sleep.
Why you should stretch too!
When you relax your muscles – you relax all of you!!
A few minutes a day will help keep stress away.
Regular stretching done in a safe, comfortable manner will increase your flexibility beyond your present ability and it will continue to gradually improve over time.
If you enjoyed reading this post please share on your fave social media sites. Thanks in advance!!
Smiles, from Lisagirl
GO AHEAD, sign up for the Simplify Your Life Challenge to further your Body-Mind Connection plus get free printable quotes!
Here’s Your PIN!
I will have to make stretching more of a routine!
Good plan!
I definitely need to stretch more so I get a bit more flexible!
Tina, it is worth the benefits to give it a go :).
This is neat to know! Makes me think I should definitely be getting into yoga!
This is great… I don’t stretch in the evening but now I think I’ll start! Thanks for sharing.
Glad to hear it Nickia, there are also some awesome stretches you can do before you even get out of the bed in the morning to start your day off right.
Stretching whilst reading and now feel great thanks!
Thanks for stopping in Livvy. You really can get in a stretch while doing almost anything, a few deep breaths work wonders too.
I need to start back up with my stretches. The only thing that could have made this better were some picture demo’s! I always worry about my form!
Hi Kanani, thanks for stopping by today. Great suggestion about adding some pictures. I appreciate your feedback!
I definitely need to do a better job of stretching a few times a day. Thanks for the reminder, and these great tips!
Thanks for the comment Candyce, there are days I need someone to remind me too!
This is such a great list of reasons why stretching is important. I have noticed that if I do not incorporate stretching into my daily routine, I can totally tell. I have a job that is kind of taxing on the body and stretching has truly helped me make it through my shifts. Thanks for the reminder of its importance to other aspects in life
Hi Victoria, thank you for checking in with us. It is important to listen to the clues our bodies give us. A few breaks to stretch during a workday can have a huge impact on our mental and physical wellbeing.
stretching is very important to gain flexibility , I guess i need to do more now
As a regular yoga practitioner, I agree. There are great benefits with just a little gentle stretching each day.
Hi Janet, how long have you been practicing yoga? The benefits I have noticed in my life over the past two years are stunning, it keeps me balanced and aware of my body and promotes healing in all areas of life. Come back soon to check out my post about the benefits of yoga!
Great tips! The first thing I do every morning is stretch, followed by Yoga. Keeps me fit and fine!
Thanks for stopping by Mandeep! I love yoga and it is a daily routine I can’t go without! I love the mind-body connection to a yoga workout, I am writing a post about yoga and should have it live next week. Come back and let me know what you think!
Every since I started working out at the beginning of this year, I find myself stretching a LOT. Not just before and after work outs either. I just get the urge to stretch, so off I go!
Hi Sarah, I know what you mean, it seems when we start paying attention to our body we ‘hear’ what it needs, and stretching is part of that! Keep up the workouts and take care!
Yes!! Stretching is amazing for you. I love to do yoga in the morning. It totally gets me going and makes my body feel wonderful.
Hi Danielle, I absolutely cannot go a day without yoga and stretching!
Stretching is so essential! After every bike ride my husband and I make sure to stretch thoroughly. Thanks for sharing these tips!
http://laceedoeslife.com
Good point Lacee! So important to stretch before and after many other forms of exercise!
I went back into your older post today, and found this gem. I love it and really need to remember to my do yoga more regularly. Maybe I will make this a New year’s resolution.
Thank Jennifer! I will ask you how the Yoga resolution is going. Yoga with Adrienne has an awesome online yoga series to get the year started right, The Yoga Revolution! You should check it out, I am sure you will love it.