Most important muscles to stretch – depending on your daily life

Different stretches, for different days, to keep your body happy in all the right places

We need flexibility in order to do a full range of motions, but we can’t get that range if we are only in one pose a day. Does your day involve a lot of sitting in front of a screen? Or maybe it involves a whole lot of standing? Staying in the same position for long periods of time hurts the body. I don’t need to tell you that your body may need some TLC, because you’re probably feeling it yourself. Grab your water and clear some space; let’s stretch. 

Sitting most of the day can lead to stiff, weakened muscles. This can mean less flexibility. Take short breaks throughout your day. A quick walk every hour will keep your blood circulating; your eyes will be thankful for the break from the screen, too. Ideally your day will also incorporate stretch breaks. Do a short 5-10 minute stretch before you sit down and/or once you are finished for the day. Make sure to work on your hip flexors to keep relaxed and elongated after a day of sitting. We have all heard about how sitting all day is bad for you, but standing all day can take its toll, too. Standing all day can lead to tight hamstrings and lower back tightness, so make sure to make time for those stretch breaks, like you do when sitting.

No matter your day, it needs to include stretching. Pay attention to your body and address not only where it hurts but the area surrounding the pain as well; a happy body is one that uses all its parts to work together in harmony. Join me in a class so we can improve posture, maintain quality in your body, while also keeping your body aligned and smiling.