These Morning Stretches Will Keep Stress At Bay & Leave You Feeling Relaxed Through The Day
We all are aware of the fact that we must exercise in order to keep fit, but not all of us like to follow through. For some of us, even the thought of working out is exhausting because of the busy schedule we deal with. However, this is one thing you might want to get used to, because not exercising might just give rise to a host of other problems.
Even if you cannot take out the the time for a full-fledged workout, little morning stretches can be and should be on your to-do list. Taking out a few minutes each morning to stretch your major muscle groups have amazing results and an undeniable positive effect on your physical and mental health.
Note: consult an expert before trying these out.
1. Leg hugs
Rest flat on the floor, bring both legs to your chest and give yourself a hug! Then release both legs down to the floor.
2. Calf stretch
Keep your legs shoulder-length apart; put your hands on a wall or chair; and make sure you keep your heels on the ground and knees straight while leaning into the chair or wall.
3. Quadriceps stretch
Feet together, hips straight. Bend your right leg in a way that your thigh is parallel to the ground. Bend your left leg backward while keeping your body straight.
4. Neck stretch
Relax your shoulders and gently move your left ear towards your left shoulder, using your left arm to help.
5. Cycle on the floor
Facing skyward, rest your body out flat. Place your hands on the floor on your sides. Raise your knees to your chest. Slowly rotate your slightly bent legs in a bicycle motion in the air. Reverse the motion and continue rotating both legs.
6. Cobra stretch
Lie on your stomach and place your hands flat beneath your shoulders. Tuck your elbows in by your sides and raise your head and chest, keeping your hips and groin on the ground.
7. Shoulder stretch
Relaxing your shoulder blades back and down, reach one arm across your body and gently use your other arm to deepen the stretch.
8. Spinal twist
Lying on your back, raise one of your knees, and slowly roll it over to the opposite side.
9. Upward stretch
10. Butterfly stretch
Sitting down, take both feet and align your heels so that they¡¯re touching, then gently press down on your thighs with your elbows and let the groin stretch.
11. Hamstring stretch
Stand upright and gently bend one knee as if you¡¯re about to sit. Place the opposite leg outward, pointing your toes towards the ceiling. Bend forward using your hips to feel a nice stretch along the back of your outstretched leg.