Movement Tidbit
S – T – R – E – T – C – H – I – N – G is very important especially in the morning. If we could remember to stretch a little before getting out of bed in the morning it would be beneficial to our movements throughout the day.
Have you ever noticed what an animal does after waking from a nap? They tend to stretch their front legs, chest, stomach, and then back legs before walking about. Stretching helps to loosen the muscles and prepare them for work. Loosening muscles that we do not think about using such as shoulders and hips can make a big difference in how we feel.
One such stretch called the “Hippie” (I Do not recommend this if you have a bad back) is where you will stand with your feet together and slowly walk your hands down your legs. You will feel the stretching in your lower back and your hips.
Just hang your arms and your head for a count of 15, with your arms and head still hanging slightly bend your right leg for a count of 25, now change legs and bend the left one for a count of 25.
With both legs straight count to 15 again then slowly bend your legs and start to raise up a little at a time until you are standing again.
I learned this exercise from Joel Harper who teaches equipment free work outs. Check out the quick link to his web site if you would like to learn more.
