3 min read
Not to scare you or anything, but it’s actually really detrimental to our health. Not only is it causing us physical discomfort, it leads to more stress in our lives, digestion issues, low motivation, headaches, poor sleep, fatigue… the list goes on and ALL because we’re not looking after our poor bodies! Reduce stress right now, right here.
With better posture, better stretches, better movement, we’re looking at a complete overhaul of our health. Look forward to better sleep, more focus, more energy, better digestion, improved confidence, better skin.. And again, ALL because we start to look after ourselves physically.
I’ll tell you something though, it’s not all bad news, because it’s actually REALLY easy to rectify. The key aspect to making sure you’re getting all the good bits and eliminating all the bad bits is consistency. Unfortunately, you can’t expect everything to be fine and dandy after doing these stretches for a week… it has to be a daily practice but here’s some more good news – it only takes about 10 minutes a day to reduce stress, and EVERYTHING you’re going to learn can be done at your desk – how great!
Most people don’t know how good their body can feel and this is something I teach to staff members every week – it makes such a huge impact to those who choose to take it on. Be part of the wellness movement, and get the most out of your life before the chronic issues arise. Here are 4 simple stretches and movements you can do at your desk to reduce stress.
Firstly! We have the beautiful eagle arms! This opens up your upper back, shoulders and wrists. It encourages good posture along with easing discomfort around the upper body, and strengthens muscles to promote a better seated position when you’re working. Do this 2-3 times a day for a few minutes at a time, each side and you’re good as gold.
Secondly, a nice twist. How often do you find yourself moaning about an achy lower back? Or can feel the tension growing? Yeah, this is the one for you. It opens up your entire spine and helps with digestion so when our blood flow isn’t working as well as it should (when we’re sat down all day), this helps to get everything moving and squeezing through you. To get the most out of this one, breathe in when you’re facing forwards and out when you twist – gives those organs a beautiful massage whilst you’re at it.
Almost there… how often are you typing? Most days? A few hours a day? Any repetitive movement can be harmful to your body, so make sure you look after the parts of yourself you use most. Stretch out those much neglected hands and fingers! Super simple, yet super effective, these lion hands will get you roaring in pleasure from the fabulous stretch. Simply follow the hand and arm stretches, thank me later. P.S. it can feel quite tight when you first start giving it a go, but keep at it 🙂
Finally, let’s get like the beautiful moon. Tightness through your neck and shoulders? Or ever feel like you’re squishing your insides from hunching so much? This one will change everything for you. It opens up your waist to help all your organs glow and work effectively, it stretches out your wrists and opens up your shoulders. Very easy, and the more you do it, the more movement you’ll notice. Do this 2-3 times a day as well, a few breathes at a time and you’re WINNING.
Oh and remember, if these start working really well – still keep at it! Your muscles have now got used to being stretched, strengthened and loved. Keep your body strong and supple and keep doing the delicious stretches to consistently make sure you’re keeping stress at bay. You got this, and your body will certainly love you. Hello good sleep, healthy digestion, glowing skin, increased energy and reduce stress – everything you deserve already.