Wellness Journalism: S-T-R-E-T-C-H-I-N-G

Physical Well-being isn't just high-impact, calorie burning sweat fests. We often overlook the simple, fundamental movements that have massive influence over our well-being. Breathing is one of these basic building blocks of health. Stretching is another.

In addition to stretching before and/or after vigorous physical activity, it is helpful to stretch continuously throughout the day. Research shows that stretching increases flexibility (and with it general physical functioning: from tying your shoes to scratching an itch on your back), while improving range of motion in the joints (you’ll be less likely to fall over). Furthermore, deep stretching and breathing combinations can clear the body of dis-ease producing anxiety.

Stand up. Reach both hands as high up toward the ceiling as you can. Imagine shooting little fireworks out of your finger tips (willpower, not gunpowder). Then fold at the waist, letting your hands drop straight down like anchors, and dangle there, as if you are hanging from a hook in your butt.

Feel all that tension? Up the back of your legs perhaps? Right behind the knee? Feel that blood rushing to your head? Maybe it feels uncomfortable, and you’re thinking dear-goodness-how-long-am-I-supposed-to-stay-in-this-position? Now imagine that every single stressful thought that exists in your brain also exists in your body as tension. Hang there, breathing in and out, aware that each breath is circulating the tension, moving it along toward an exit. Maybe it trickles down your legs, flushing out through your feet and into the absorbent earth. Maybe it flickers from your finger tips and the palms of your hands. Maybe it spills from the top of your head. Use your breath to relax into your stretch and let it all drain out.

To boost the body all day long, implement a stretching routine into your morning, afternoon, or evening (better yet, all three!).



Remember:

• Hold your pose for at least 20 seconds. And keep it steady (don’t bounce, you might tear something)
• Maintain your posture. Keep your back supported, or straight, and use your abdominal muscles to monitor your alignment. Know what muscle you are trying to stretch and make sure that is where you feel it.
• If you feel pain, ease back. Stretching should make you feel better—not worse.
• BREATHE. Deeply. Slowly. In through the nose, down into your gut...then exhale through the mouth.
  

Stretching every day keeps tension away!