Make sure you are getting the most out of your stretching sessions with these tips to maximize the benefits
Getting a good stretch is key to unlocking the countless benefits that it has for the body and mind. Consistent stretching is linked to improved mental health, physical health, overall quality of life and minimizes injury.
Having a consistent routine at a time and place that fits your schedule and needs is a great first step on your journey to better caring for your body. As that routine starts to become part of your day, stretching more intentionally is a great next step. Listening to your body and engaging in mind- muscle connection can improve your muscle activation, leading to greater muscle growth, a deeper stretch and amplifying the benefits both mentally and physically.
To activate mind-muscle connection I recommend closing your eyes and thinking about where you feel the stretch. This is where the uncomfortable part of the stretch can occur, and where the utilization of breathing can become beneficial. Inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. During your exhale, while still thinking about where your stretch is, sink deeper into that stretch and let your muscle relax.
Here is an example of how to sink into your stretch during an exhale:
Thinking about your muscles and utilizing breathes allows you to sit very deep into that stretch, and getting to that point may be the hardest part of the stretch, but it is important that you sit in these deep stretches for at least 30-60 seconds each.
Once you have pushed yourself slightly to sit in a stretch that is uncomfortable, but not painful, sitting in this stretch is important. It is important to listen to your body, and not over stretch here. Over stretching can lead to injury and delay your progress even more due to soreness that can linger.
Utilizing mind muscle connection and having quiet relaxing time to connect with your body before bed is another reason that I like to stretch at night. I find that this kind of reflection is great for me to relax my mind and to end my day do something productive that benefits my mind and body and makes me feel great.
Prating makes perfect, especially when you are crafting your own routine designed to benefit specifically you. Only you know what works best for you, because only you know how you feel! Continue practicing different ways of stretching you find help you best, including different positions, times of day and location. This is the most important key in unlocking all the benefits of stretching because it allows you to be consistent long enough to feel them everyday.
