You must have seen many movies where the actor wakes up and suddenly pulls into a stretch. The iconic waking up scene, where she wakes up to a glorious morning and stretches her arm out to get ready, to start the day. That is actually a very important exercise that most would not think of and has a variety of benefits.
Benefits include:
- It increases your flexibility allow you to get the full range of motion with your legs and arms, and can aid in activities such as dance and sport.
- It allows a kick start of energy as the movement of stretching allow your blood to circulate the body at a faster rate and hence gives you a morning kick to start the day.
- The movement allows improve in your posture, and stop you from getting hunched shoulders.
Here are 5 stretches for you to try out:
Standing Toe touch
Stand up straight, with legs shoulder-width apart. And then lean forward with the tips of your fingers slowly reaching for your toes. If you cannot reach your toes, try to go as far as you can and hold for 5 seconds.
Warrior Pose
Face forward with moving your left leg in front of you and keep it slightly bent while moving the right foot back. Then turn your body to face sideward and turning your back foot facing the same direction as your body.
Child’s Pose
Sit on the ground with your knees folded and the bottom of your feet facing up. Then place your hands above you on the ground and rock your hips back to feel a stretch along your back.
Butterfly Pose
Sit on the ground with your legs tucked in. Place the bottom of your feet together and try to bring your legs as close as you can to your body. Slowly bring your knees as close to the ground as possible.
Tree Pose
Stand straight with your shoulders rolled back. Lift your right leg and place it along your inner thigh of your left leg. Try holding your balance and connect your hands together in the centre of your chest. Hold for at least 5-10 seconds.
Love Izzi and LUS Team xoxo
