Streching is one of the easiest way of moving your body and offers tremendous benefits for your mind too. Here are all the benefits.
Streching is one of the easiest way of moving your body and offers tremendous benefits for your muscles and joints. You can greatly benefit by stretching if your job requires long hours of sitting considering not moving your body may make your muscles stiff and prone to injury. Stretching is also useful for athletes and players who are recommended to do it before and after the game. Stretching should also be incorporated in your workout routine to prevent injuries and strengthen your muscles. (Also read: Guest column | Fitness, just a stretch away)
Regular stretching can also keep those pesky back and neck pains away and help improve your posture. Stretching regularly is an effective way of releasing stress and it is excellent for mental health too.
Himalayan Siddha Akshar, Founder, Akshar Yoga Research and Development Centre talks about wonderful benefits of stretching.
Benefits of stretching for the body and mind
Stretching regularly brings many health benefits not just for the body but also for your mental health. When stretching becomes a part of your everyday workout routine, it leads to so many positive changes for you. Here we are listing some of the reasons why stretching is a great habit for you.
Improves Flexibility
Stretching is an effective method if you want to increase your flexibility. Being more flexible also increases your range of motion. When you add stretches to your workout, you are guaranteed to experience an increase in your flexibility. It is useful to note that the more flexible your spine is, the the younger you will look and even feel. This allows you to move better. Through proper and regular stretching the range of motion of your joints improves.
Say goodbye to back pain
For those who suffer from back pain, stretching is a great way to get rid of this problem once and for all. Stiffness or tightness in the muscles of the back is one of the biggest reasons for poor posture. And consequently, bad posture is one of the main causes for back pain. Stretching releases tightness from the muscles in your back, neck, shoulders, hamstrings, and hips. All this play a key role in eliminating any aches and pains in the body.
Keeps you safe during workouts
One of the other most important benefits of stretching is that you can maintain an injury free workout. Stretching increases your mobility and as a result it lowers the likelihood of injury. Stretching also enhances blood circulation in the body which helps as a warm up. This is vital before starting any physical activity.
Better posture
Were you aware that stretching can correct your posture? When the muscles of the body feel cramped from stiffness, it causes improper posture. Working on specific muscle groups such as the upper and lower parts of the back, shoulders, neck, chest, and your hips frees any stiffness from them. Our current lifestyles have habituated us to continuously sit for long hours in front of a screen which is not good for our posture. Stretching is the counter measure to all these unhealthy habits.
Builds discipline
Stretching as a habit can be the best way to start your day. Discipline is achieved over time as it changes your mind set and habits. To be certain of having yourself a productive and successful day you must prepare for it by following a schedule first and foremost. This builds discipline, focus, and determination. The way that you start your morning will ensure how the rest of your day goes.
Reduces stress
Staying active with practices like yoga and stretching help you become better connected with yourself. Build mindfulness through daily stretches for overall well being of both mind and body. Stretching is an extremely grounding experience. When you train your body and mind with stretches and yoga techniques you can reduce stress. Physical postures, pranayama, and meditation have the ability to regulate your nervous system and bring tranquillity for the mind.
