Stretching can provide an enhanced development of body awareness, so that we can discover where we store tension in the body, how much we store, and what movement helps it to release. Other benefits may include improved circulation, decreased muscle soreness, decreased stress and anxiety, and physical relaxation.

The main thing to keep in mind while stretching is not to force. When we don’t listen to the body and push it too far, we are susceptible to injury. It is extremely helpful to learn proper alignment in order to stretch well, and it is very important to learn what stretches to avoid if you have any injuries or health conditions. One way of stretching may be wonderful for one person and damaging to another. For example, if you have back problems and you stretch by bending forward, you may be setting yourself up for further problems. Learning to stretch while lying on your back may be safer for you. If you have high blood pressure or heart problems, it may be harmful to do stretches with your arms higher than your head, which causes the heart to work harder. It is not advisable to do stretches with your head lower than your heart (such as a standing forward bend) if you have high blood pressure, a heart condition, or if you have had a stroke, as it creates too much blood flow and pressure in the head.

There are many modifications that can be made for various health conditions that provide safe alignment in stretching. Learn what is best for you and then enjoy stretching every day. You’ll feel better!

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