The benefits of stretching, and how to stretch

There are lots and lots of benefits to stretching! If you already know stretching is important, scroll down to the bottom to find tips on proper stretching techniques.

 1.      The most important reason to stretch is to improve blood circulation. Stretching causes blood to flow into your muscles, and with it the blood will bring fresh oxygen and other nourishment to all the muscle cells. This makes the muscles work longer without getting fatigued, and also helps them to work more efficiently. As a result the muscles cells burn more energy and have a longer endurance. So your energy levels will stay up longer, whether you are exercising, or just trying to get through another work day. In fact, if you try stretching for 10 minutes each morning, you may find you don't need that cup of coffee to help you wake up anymore! (Take it from me…I never drink coffee!)

2.      The increased blood flow is the reason you should stretch after exercising. The blood will bring in nutrients that the cells need, but it will also take away the built-up lactic acid in your muscles. Lactic acid build-up is one reason that your muscles feel achy the day after a good work-out or strenuous exercise. By washing that away, you won't feel as achy.

3.      Stretching will help to maintain or even increase flexibility if done regularly.

4.      If you stretch before physical activity it will warm up your muscles and get your muscles ready to move. By doing this you are helping to prevent sports-related injuries such as strains.

5.      Regular stretching will keep your muscles loose and agile and healthy. Many problems can arise from tight muscles such as sciatica, tension headaches, and low back pain. Stretching is a simple way to prevent these debilitating problems.

6.      You may have noticed that many of these benefits the same as you get from a massage therapy treatment. So if you stretch between massage therapy appointments the effects of the massage will last longer!

1. Hold every stretch for at least 30 seconds.

2. Stay steady - don't bounce or pulse during the stretch

3. Ease into the stretch. Wrenching your muscle into a stretched position can do more harm than good.

4. Stretch your muscles within your comfort zone. If you are stretching your muscle so far (lengthening the muscles too much) this will do more harm than good.

5. Breathe!

6. Relax! Relaxed muscles will stretch more easily.

7. Be sure to stretch both sides. If you stretch a muscle on one side of your body, make sure to stretch it on the other side also. You don't want to be off balance and lopsided.

8. Remember the muscles in your neck - these are important muscles, especially if you carry your stress in your neck and shoulders.