Stretching…Why is it so important?

Did you know that stretching on a regular basis is just as important as exercising? This doesn’t mean you need to take two hours of your day to go to a yoga class. Even 10-15 minutes of stretching will recharge your body, calm the mind, and provide a mental break.

Have a yoga mat handy in your home. First thing in the morning or right before bed, try stretching for a few minutes. Sometimes I do a quick stretch before my shower. Having your yoga mat close by will make it easier for you to decide to lay it out and to use it. Focus on the muscles that you feel need the most help. If you are aware of muscles that are tight, focus on those and spend longer on each stretch (at least 30 seconds for each stretch). Ensure that your body is relaxed and that you are breathing throughout the exercises. You will be surprised at how much better you will feel after a short session of stretching.

Why is stretching is so efficient? Stretching increases blood and nutrient supply to your muscles, reducing muscle soreness and improving your range of motion (flexibility). Because so many of us spend a lot of time at our computers, we develop tight chest muscles which pulls the shoulders and head forward, eventually leaving us with a hunched shoulder look. Stretching lengthens tight muscles and assists in correcting posture. It also improves blood circulation and decreases the risk of injury by preparing the muscles for work before activity.

Once a week, try to incorporate a flexibility class into your schedule. Yoga, hot yoga, Pilates, or even doing stretching on your own for 60 minutes will offer you a chance to spend a full hour releasing tension, physically and mentally.

Hopefully this can help you incorporate stretching into your schedule!