1. Got a Stiff Neck?
If you suddenly have a severe stiff neck, rule out meningitis before you do any exercise. Meningitis is a serious disease that often emerges as a stiff neck. If you have other symptoms that include a high fever, nausea, flu-like symptoms, confusion, sleepiness, vomiting, headache or pain when you look at a bright light, call a doctor immediately for an evaluation. Most stiff necks come from sleeping in an odd position, sitting wrong or performing a task in an awkward position, simple wear and tear or whiplash. If you have whiplash or degenerative spine disease, consult your physician before doing any exercise. For simple causes, use exercise and gentle massage to relax those stiff muscles.
2. Prepare for Chinese Neck Stretches Standing or Sitting
The exercises are a series of stretches designed in such a way that you choose whether you stand or sit. If you sit, sit on your knees or toward the front of a comfortable chair. Both standing and sitting exercises require that you keep your back straight but not stiff.
3. Turn the Head to the Side
Sit or stand comfortably and keep the head in line with the body and eyes forward. Relax the shoulders and bring the left hand up to the right side of the face. Gently aid the movement of the head to the right with the hand so the chin comes close to being over the shoulders. Now, face forward and bring the right hand up and turn the neck to the left and feel the muscles stretch.
4. Tilt the Head to the Side
Place your left hand over the top of the head and touch the fingers to the right side. Instead of turning to the side, this exercise tilts the head to the side so the ear comes close to the shoulder. Gently aid in the tilt with your hand until you feel a stretch and return to centered position. Use the other hand to tilt the head to the left.
5. Lean Back and Breathe Deeply to Relieve a Stiff Neck
Tilt the head back as you place your hand on your forehead to aid in the movement. Be very gentle and move slowly. Inhale deeply as you move your head backward and hold the position for a moment. Bring the head back to normal position.
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