Relationships September 23, 2016
Although reaching your arm from under the covers over to your nightstand to hit the snooze button in the morning is technically stretching, it’s not exactly the best way to get your day going.
In fact, the snooze practice has been proved to actually decrease daily productivity.
“When you doze off after your alarm wakes you in the morning, you’re actually setting yourself up to feel less alert and productive later in the day,” CNN reports.
With just a few simple exercises each morning, you can change all that. By taking 10 minutes out of your beauty-sleep regime to properly stretch, you will not only create a more energized day for yourself, but you will reduce your stress levels, improve your health and increase productivity.
Here are five morning stretches that will change the way you feel and think.
Put your right hand on a doorframe, windowsill or wall and hold it. Then step forward with your right leg so that your entire body is facing to the left and your arm is extending behind you.
Hold the stretch for five deep breaths and then switch arms.
This stretch can be done by either sitting in a chair or lying on the ground. If you are sitting, place one hand behind you and the other on the outer leg of the same side you are twisting. And if you want to go deeper with this stretch, then you can turn your head to look behind you. But don’t force it.
If you are lying down, then lay on your back with your arms apart and knees bent. Twist your hips so that your knees are facing one side. Remember to keep your back straight.
Hold either position for 10 seconds while taking deep breaths.
Place your right leg onto a bench, chair or step. Keep your left back leg as straight as possible. Slowly lean forward while making sure you hinge at the hips. You don’t want to lean forward with a curve in your back. Your back needs to be straight.
Hold the stretch for five deep breaths. Then switch legs.
You can either do this stretch standing or lying down. If you are standing, keep your legs hip distance apart and make sure you are holding something for support. Bend your left knee and grab your foot behind you so that your knee is pointing towards the floor.
If you are lying down, lie on your left side and bend your right knee.
Hold for five deep breaths and repeat on the other side.
Sit cross-legged on the floor with your back straight. Slowly turn your right ear towards your right shoulder and hold for twenty seconds without forcing a pull. After the twenty seconds, relax for a bit and roll your shoulders by lifting them up and then relaxing.
Repeat on the other side. Do each side several times.
These quick morning stretches will help you start each day productive and energized!
