Did you know that regular stretching is just as important as regular exercise? Many people neglect this aspect of their fitness regime, even though stretching has major benefits. Read more of how it can improve your posture, mood and mental health!
Stretching helps to improve flexibility (increases your range of motion) and assists in correct posture by lengthening tight muscles that pull areas of the body away from their intended position because of so much time at our computers, many of us have tight chest muscles which pull the shoulders and head forward, leaving us with a hunched shoulder look.
It has a great potential to decrease injury by preparing muscles for work before activity and increases blood and nutrient supply to muscles, thereby possibly reducing muscle soreness.
What is more, incorporating stretching into your warm-up—never try to stretch cold muscles—might help your body get ready for exercise as well as switch your brain into “workout mode. Stretching can’t totally eliminate injury, but it could certainly help from a mindset perspective by getting you more focused so you’re less likely to make an ouch-inducing misstep.
When it comes to mental health, a short amount of time (10-15 minutes) of stretching can calm the mind, provide a mental break, and give your body a chance to recharge. What is more, classes like yoga or pilates offer you a chance to spend an hour releasing tension physically and mentally
For more wellness tips or to work one-on-one with a trainer visit on Ultimate Health & Wellness at http://ulti-health.com/ or call (310) 413-0514.
