Do you find yourself feeling like this guy far too often? Wondering why you just can't sleep well? Sometimes the stresses of a long busy day carry over into your muscles which make you feel tense. The result is a bad nights rest, and a grumpy you in the morning. In addition, it's that much harder to get out of bed because now tense muscles have turned into knots and soreness. Luckily the solution is simple: stretch.
What do stretching and flossing have in common? Many people take it for granted and leave it out of their daily routine, thinking that it won't make much of a difference. However, once you start doing it, you realize just how wrong you were initially! Here are three reasons why stretching should be a part of everyone's routine.
Stretching reduces muscle tension and decreases stress and anxiety.
In a sense stretching is a form of meditation because it causes you to focus on breathing steadily, ultimately helping you to relax. Stretch out really well for 20 minutes before bed and you will fall asleep like a baby, and wake up feeling well rested.
Stretching improves your circulation and increases mental alertness.
If you feel groggy in the morning, stretch for 20 minutes to give your body a jump start. By getting the blood flowing, your brain is ready to power up and start the day. Couple this with a balanced breakfast and you’ll be ready to take on anything.
Stretching before exercising decreases the risk of injury.
As we have been taught since grade school, stretching before exercise will protect your crucial ligaments from being strained during activity. After 30 minutes of stretching, your body is more limber and prepared for more rigorous movements performed during exercise.
Try to consciously remind yourself to make stretching a part of your entire day. Stretch right when you wake up, around the post-lunch lull, and right before you go to bed. It only takes a total of 20 minutes and will make a huge difference in sleeping and waking up. Tell us what your stretching routine consists of and what your favorite stretches are!