Challenge #6: Stretch Yourself

In keeping with that 'Use Your Body' theme I started last week, this week's challenge is to stretch those muscles and ligaments.

Stretching is SO good for you and it is so easy to do.  You don't even have to break a sweat to make those muscles feel better.   

A good, healthy stretch is one where you feel a little challenged, but listen to your body.  It should NOT hurt, just be challenging.  AND remember to BREATHE! Try to hold each stretch for at least 5 deep breaths.  With each breath try and push the stretch a little more.  The oxygen your breathing in can get to your muscles and help them lengthen and expand, which should help you take that stretch a bit farther each time.

This is so easy and so good for you.  Stretching and challenging your body to open and expand with deep breathing is a simplistic synopsis behind what it means to do yoga.  In my opinion, yoga is a sort of active meditation that forces you to concentrate on your breath, your mind, and your body - basically, YOU!  How often do we stop to do that?  I know I wish I could do it more.

So take 10 minutes out of your day and breathe deep into that body of yours. 

Here are some links to some super easy and stress-relieving stretches:

*NOTE: Don't worry if you can't do these perfectly.  You're not meant to it first.  It's about teaching your body a new way to move, so do the best you can and be patient.  It will be challenging at first, but that's what changes us, so keep trying.  I promise, not matter what, you will feel better after you do it.*

http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=1262 (A great beginners routine)

http://www.symptomfind.com/healthy-living/stretching-exercises-for-flexibility/  (Great for  beginners and overall felxibility)

http://www.kaizenvision.com/2010/07/10-easy-stretched-to-relieve-your-stress/ (Stress relieving stretches - My favorites!)

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stretching/WL00030 (Office stretching!)

http://www.fitsugar.com/Stretches-Relieve-Lower-Back-Pain-Open-Tight-Hips-409369  (One of my personal favorite stretching routines)

Or use Google to find some of your own stretching ideas! They're easy, relaxing, energizing, and again, GOOD FOR YOU!