A work-from-home lifestyle can sometimes feel like a haze but that’s where quick stretches comes into play. Movement on a regular basis plays a big role in helping your body and mind work optimally.
Reset with these three quick and easy stretches
We unconsciously hold stress and strain in our shoulders, necks and hips that we don’t realize will affect us in the long run. This is why stepping away from life’s demands to dedicate even a small amount of time to yourself is vital.
If you’re starting out try out these three stretches that improve your mobility.
Downward facing dog
Self.com says this classic downward facing dog pose is perfect as it targets the chest, hamstrings, and back.
- Start on your hands and knees, with your hands stacked under your shoulders and knees under your hips.
- Spread your hands wide and start pressing up into your index finger.
- Lift your tailbone and press your back up and back. It should start lifting to the ceiling.
- Straighten your legs as best as you can and gently press your heels to the floor.
- Hold for 30 – 60 seconds.
Piriformis stretch
This stretch is a relief to your body after hours of sitting.
- Sit on the floor with both legs long in front of you.
- Cross your right leg over your left and place it flat on the floor. Your right hand will be your anchor on the floor behind you.
- Stretch even further by placing your left elbow or hand on your right knee.
Child’s pose
Get into the child’s pose to gently stretch your spine and hips.
- Come to your hands and knees on the mat.
- Spread your hips as wide as your mat for a deep stretch as your feet are flat with your big toes touching at the back.
- Rest your belly in between your thighs and extend your arms out in front of you.
- While doing this take full breaths and relax your eyes, jaw and arms.
Reminders for when you’re doing these stretches
- Our breath is what leads us in and out of a stretch. Take full slow-paced breaths to feel the full effects of a stretch.
- Don’t strain your body trying to stretch far beyond what you’re able to when starting out. Work your way up with a few minutes in a pose daily.
- Avoid these stretches if you have any knee, hip, arm and neck injuries.