Neck Stretch

BENEFITS

Stretches neck and shoulders, reduces tension and relieves tired muscles, promotes better posture, increases circulation to brain and facial muscles, increases energy, reduces overall stress and promotes a deep feeling of relaxation.


INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Sit in your chair, feet flat on the floor, legs at a 90 degree angle. Contract your abdominal muscles just slightly, lift up through your chest and lengthen your spine.  Drop your shoulders down your back.

Step 2: Place your hands on your thighs.  As you inhale, lengthen through the crown of your head a little more, and as you exhale, gently lower your right ear toward your right shoulder. Relax your right shoulder and drop it down away from your right ear.

Step 3: (Not Shown) Optional:  To move deeper, release your left hand to the underside of your chair and gently hold on as you stretch deeper, maybe even leaning slightly to the right.

Step 4: Stay here, breathing in and out, for at least 30 seconds. 

Step 5: Inhale and lift your head and body back to center.  Exhale, lower your left ear toward your left shoulder.  Repeat steps 3 and 4 on this side.

Step 6: To come out, inhale your head and body back to center.  Give your shoulders a shake, and repeat again on both sides if you have time.