Take time to stretch: it feels good, and it’s good for you

If you stood up right now, how would you feel? Would all your joints crack? Would you notice the tension in your shoulders, neck and temples? Would you feel the need to shake out your wrists and hands?

When is the last time you enjoyed a nice full-body stretch?

It’s ironic that while we all know just how good we feel after a good stretch, we rarely make time for stretching in our daily routine.

Stretching has so many benefits for the body and mind:

Improves flexibility, posture, and blood flow

You’ve probably heard that “sitting is the new smoking.” As we spend hours on end hunched over in front of a screen, our muscles tense up, our back (and wrists, if typing) begin to ache, and our blood circulation slows – which can lead to dangerous blood clots.

Too much sitting for prolonged periods of time has even been linked to insulin resistance, a lowered ability to process fats, and an increased risk of premature death from cardiovascular disease and cancer.

We can help counteract these effects throughout the day by simply getting up regularly for a gentle stretch.

Reduce stress and headaches

Muscle tension goes hand-in-hand with stress and headaches. Periodically taking time to stretch and massage the areas where you “hold your stress” – typically your shoulders, neck, and back – can go a long way towards preventing and relieving stress and stress headaches.

For this reason, stretching before bed can also help you relax for a better night’s sleep.

Improve focus and elevate mood

When frustrated or stuck on a problem at work, getting up to stretch gets fresh oxygen to your muscles, lets you take a mental break, and “wakes you up” while literally giving you a fresh perspective.

Stretching first thing in the morning is an excellent way to greet the day!

Reduces risk of injury and muscle soreness

Since stretching improves circulation, taking time to fully stretch after a workout can reduce DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) and recovery time.

Increases range of motion

Along the same lines, stretching before a workout works out any tightness and imbalances that could lead to muscle injuries during your sweat session.

As we age, some loss of flexibility, mobility, and balance is natural, but consciously making the effort to keep our muscles elastic can slow these losses considerably.

And really, it does feel so good! Think of it as treating yourself!