Did you know that stretching can be just as important for your muscles as the exercises themselves?!
YES! Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints. Without it, the muscles shorten and become tight. Then, when you call on the muscles for activity, they are weak and unable to extend all the way. You have to use it or you'll lose it!
Here are three stretches that I do daily.
* First thing in the morning before getting out of bed I like to lay on my back and hug my knees into my chest. Give myself a little hug and thank God for a new wonderful day. While I do this I rotate my ankles to get them awake before I try to stand on them. Then I cross my right leg over my left and let my legs fall to the left while I look over my right shoulder. It's a nice glute stretch and spinal rotation. I have to keep it even so I switch legs and sides. Good Morning!
* My hamstrings (back of your leg from the knee up) are usually tight. This can lead to lower back pain. In the photo above, I am stretching them. A forward fold while standing or sitting is nice for the lower back and hamstrings too. There are many ways to get to your hamstrings but a simple move like I am doing will get it done.
* Who is on a computer or cell phone? I like to get the anti-phone position by stretching out my chest and lifting my chin. I will often grasp my hands behind my back and lift my arms up while lifting my chin. If you can't reach both hands, a door way works well. Spread your arms across the opening, plant your feet and gently lean forward - holding yourself with your arms.
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