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Stress Relief through Stretching (Part 5) 
As always I welcome ideas for this article. Let me know if you have an area that you would like addressed soon, and I will put that in the next issue.
Low back (again):
One easy stretch to do while you are working at your spring project is as follows:
- The intent of this one is to stretch the Front of the body, which if too shortened, can cause the low back to hurt. Our bodies need to be in balance to work efficiently.
- Start with a centered, grounded stance.
- Place both palms, with fingertips pointing straight down, on your lower back - preferably on the top of your pelvis.
- Lift your shoulders up towards your ears and bend your head back to rest on shoulders. This is not a neck stretch - it is just a good place to rest your head and protect your neck.
- Slowly, and with the intent of stretching the Front of the body, bend backwards.
- Keep your shoulders up and head resting there.
- Please do not over do this one - just go to a good stretch point and hold for a few seconds
Supported back arches also help to stretch the front of the body:
- This is best done over a yoga ball, but a comfortable foot stool could work as well.
- Sit on your yoga ball and roll it forward allowing the spine to connect with the ball until it is completely supported. (basically lower your back onto the yoga ball)
- Allow yours arms to fall out to the sides.
- Enjoy the supported stretch - feels great!
Enjoy your stretches!!! Until next time.... |
