Day 9 - Stretch Betr

Stretch Betr

Stretching is great for your mind and body and can be easily done at home with little to no equipment.

Stretching focuses on lengthening your muscles and can dramatically increase your range of motion and flexibility. Stretching is also beneficial for bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and skin. You can incorporate stretching as a quick 5-minute part of your daily routine or it can be a whole workout.

Yoga can be a more intense stretching-centered workout since many types of yoga mix strength and lengthening exercises together!

Benefits of stretching:

Increases range of motion
Reduces risk of injury
Improves circulation
Reduces tension headaches
Relieves stress
Calms the body

Incorporating stretching into your routine

You can add stretching into your day at different times for different purposes.

In the morning: Stretching in the morning can help you wake up quickly by increasing blood flow.

Throughout the day: Stretching periodically during the day can help with blood flood and ease tension headaches that might occur from looking at a screen.

Before a workout: Performing dynamic (moving) stretches before exercise can improve your performance and decrease your risk of injury.

After a workout: Stretching after a workout is the best time if your goal is to improve flexibility. Your muscles are their most pliable when warm, take advantage of that!

Before bed: A calming exercise like stretching can help the mind and body wind down before bed.

5 things to keep in mind when stretching

Hold it A stretch should be held for at least 30 seconds to improve flexibility.
Focus Prioritize areas of your body that are tight.
Breathe Taking slow deep breaths can help you relax and increase blood flow.
Take Your Time Like all exercises, stretching can take a few weeks to see results.
Don't Stretch Too Far You don't want to stretch to the point where you are in pain.