HOW STRETCHING IS HELPFUL FOR BODY AND MIND - Stretching, in its most basic form, is a natural and automatic action. People often stretch instinctively after waking from sleep or after long periods of inactivity. Stretching is the deliberate lengthening of muscles in order to increase muscle flexibility and joint range of motion. Stretching activities are an important part of any exercise. They help warm the body up prior to activity thus decreasing the risk of injury as well as muscle soreness. The benefits of stretching are many and have been proven through various studies over time. 1. Increased flexibility- The most established and obvious benefit of stretching is to help improve flexibility and range of motion. Flexible muscles can improve your daily performance. Tasks such as lifting packages, bending to tie your shoes become easier and less tiring. A lack of stretch ability can cause movement to become slower and less fluid. An increase in flexibility is accompanied by improved balance and coordination.
2. Better Posture- Frequent stretching can help keep your muscles from getting tight, allowing you to maintain proper posture. Good posture can minimize discomfort and keep aches and pains at a minimum. Stretching the muscles of the lower back, chest and shoulders can help keep the spine in better alignment and improve overall posture.
3. Stress Relief with Stretching- Stress will cause several medical complications and unhealthiness. Finding ways that to alleviate stress will facilitate with weight loss and peace of mind. Stretching could be a good way to assist relieves stress and helps to relax tense muscles that area unit sometimes accompanied with stress.
4. Improved Circulation with Stretching- Stretching exercises will increase the blood flow to your muscles. This increase in blood flow and improved circulation will cut back the time required to heal injuries to your muscles.
5. You’ll be able to exercise for longer- Stretching loosens the muscles and tendons, which relieves muscle fatigue. As we get older we become less flexible, as we spend so long at a desk or on the couch. By stretching, we’re warming up those sleepy areas of our body and reminding them it’s time to get moving.
6. Stretching and sound sleep -If you’re postmenopausal, A regular morning routine of stretching and light exercise has been proven to give you a good night’s sleep, compared to women who do not exercise or exercise in the evening.
7. Stretching for Healthy Life- By doing some kind of flexibility training, you will notice less pain, improved movement, reduced muscle soreness, and improved physical performance. Stretching exercise practices like Yoga also help relax muscles and your mind so you stress less.
8. Reduce Lower Back Pain-One of the most notable benefits of stretching is that it promotes muscular relaxation and because of this, can lessen lower back pain. Since those muscles are commonly contracted throughout the day, whether sitting or doing activities, they can become stressed and cause pain.
9. You’ll be less likely to get an injury- After a ten-minute stretching before working out, you’ll have better coordination and it’ll be less likely for your muscles to rip and tear.
10. Better vary of Motion with Stretching- Stretching decreases muscle stiffness and increases range of motion. Stretching helps improve your range of motion which may also slow the degeneration of the joints May reduce your risk of injury. A flexible muscle is less likely to become injured from a slightly extensive movement. By increasing the range of motion in a particular joint through stretching, you may decrease the resistance on your muscles during various activities.
Stretching tips
Be careful to stretch the right way at the right times to avoid injuring yourself. • Stretch your muscles only when they are “warm”. Never start your workout with a stretch. It’s best to stretch at the end of your workout. • Hold the stretch to the point of mild tension for 15-30 seconds. • Avoid bouncing or jerking movements. • Focus on your breath to optimize the movement. Take one long breath in, then let it out slowly as your perform the stretch. • Relax and experience the mind-body connection.
