5 Reasons Why You Should Start Stretching In the Morning 

For most of you, sitting in front of a desk, slouched for the most significant part of your day, this question is for you: How do you feel in the morning? Do you feel like you can get up and be instantly ready to take on the day, or do you feel tired, groggy, and fed up with having to go through the same routine? Are you experiencing muscle stiffness or muscle soreness? Think long and hard about this one, and be honest with yourself. 

If you’re like most people, you may experience some degree of morning fatigue, especially if you’ve been sitting for long periods the day before. This can be due to several factors, including poor sleep quality, dehydration, and lack of physical activity. When you don’t move your body enough during the day, your muscles can become stiff and sore, making it harder to get out of bed in the morning.

If you find getting up in the morning difficult, incorporating some stretches on a regular basis can help you become a better version of yourself.

How To Establish A Morning Routine

If you’re not a fan of waking up early, it’s okay. You can make it a daily routine rather than just a morning routine. Once you learn about the benefits of stretching, you’ll likely want to incorporate it into your daily life. This way, you can make it a habit and reap the benefits of stretching and improving your parasympathetic nervous system.

To establish a good morning stretching routine, follow these steps:

• Find the spot to perform your stretches
• Get in the right mindset and acknowledge that you are doing something good for your body
• Listen to your body to reduce your risk of injury
• Develop a stretching sequence

How Long Should You Stretch?

It’s important to note that the best time to stretch in the morning can vary from person to person, depending on their body state and range of motion. However, dedicating 5 to 10 minutes each morning is a good starting point. The most important thing is to make it a habit, regardless of how long you do it.

The Benefits of Stretching In The Morning

Now that you understand how to establish a morning routine, let’s look at some benefits. You might be questioning why it’s important to stretch and what advantages it provides. This practice is not only about feeling good and enhancing better circulation in your body. It has so much more to offer.

Stress relief 

If you wake up in the morning with worries about what the day ahead may bring, know that gentle stretches can work wonders for your mental health. Whether psychological or physiological factors cause stress, it can accumulate in the body over time. However, gentle stretches can help reduce stress levels. Just a few minutes of stretching in the morning can make a significant difference in your entire day.

Lower Back 

Stretching first thing in the morning is a good practice; your body will be thanking you for it, especially your lower back. When you work in a sedentary position for longer, your back may become compressed. You can quickly fix that issue if you stretch your body in the morning.

Improved Mobility

Moving around during the day is crucial for your overall health and well-being. Even simple activities such as walking to your car or getting out of bed should be easy. However, you can incorporate these stretches into your daily routine if you struggle with these tasks. Both dynamic and static stretches can help improve your flexibility and mobility and reduce joint pain.

Better Posture

Goodbye, poor posture! When you try to take care of your body, it rewards you with additional benefits. Stretching in the morning is an excellent way to improve your posture over time. Focusing on stretches that target your chest and back muscles can enhance the benefits of stretching.

Less Pain

It all boils down to this: stretching in the morning leads to less pain, improved mobility, mental clarity, and an overall happier you. Feeling your muscles move in the morning is a satisfying experience that keeps you active and reduces pain.

The Best Stretches To Do

If you want to experience the benefits of morning stretching, creating a routine tailored to your needs is a good idea. As a beginner, seeking guidance, whether from a personal trainer, physical therapist, or an internet search, is normal, and that’s where we can help. Certain stretches are more effective than others, whether you want to target sore muscles, improve your posture, increase blood flow, or enhance your mental health. We’ve compiled a list of the best stretches you can do.

Neck Stretch 

Sit straight and place one hand on your head, then gently pull your head towards your shoulder until you feel a stretch. Hold for 10 seconds, return to a neutral position, and repeat on the other side.

Forward Reach 

Sit with your back straight, knees open, and feet flat on the floor. Extend your spine and lower your chin to your chest. Stretch your arms out before you and gradually lower them to the ground. Then, walk your arms away from you while keeping your palms on the floor. Hold this position for a minute and then release.

Trapezius Stretch 

Place your right arm against your chest with your palm on your left shoulder to perform the exercise. Then, place your left arm underneath your right elbow and gently slide your right hand over your left shoulder and down your back. Hold this position for a few seconds, return to a neutral position, and repeat the exercise at least ten times on each side.

Pigeon Stretch 

Assume a seated position on the ground. Bring your right knee in front of your body at a 90-degree angle while keeping your back straight. Also, straighten your other leg behind you. Ensure your hips are square and feel the stretch that helps release the tension. Hold this pose for approximately 30 seconds, then repeat the same steps on the opposite side.

Starting your day with a good stretch can work wonders for your whole body. The feeling of your muscles loosening up and blood flowing through your body is invigorating. Morning stretches are easy to do, require no equipment, and can be done in the comfort of your own home. By incorporating some of our favorite stretches as a part of your daily routine, you’ll be taking a proactive step toward improving your overall health and well-being.

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