Exercise keeps your neck strong and flexible. Performing neck exercises regularly also relieves muscle tension and stiffness, according to experts at the University of Maryland. If you have a neck problem, however, you need to consult your doctor before engaging in any exercise.
Cayce Exercise
If you do desk work, type, play piano or otherwise end up with tension in your neck, the Cayce head-and-neck exercise will alleviate this tension, advise Harold J. Reilly and Ruth Hagy Brod in "The Edgar Cayce Handbook for Health Through Drugless Therapy." Sit erect in a chair, pressing your shoulders into the chair back to keep your posture straight. Bend your head forward three times, bend it back three times, bend it to the right three times and bend it to the left three times. Follow this by circling your head each way three times. Move slowly throughout this exercise.
Stretching Exercises
Perform a stretching exercise called a neck glide, advise Stephen Hochschuler and Bob Reznik in "Treat Your Back Without Surgery." Start with your head in a neutral position. Slowly slide your chin forward. Hold this position for 10 seconds before releasing. Hochschuler and Reznik also recommend a shoulder-shrug stretch. Shrug your shoulders as high as you can and hold this position for 10 seconds. Do 10 repetitions of each exercise.
Resistance Exercises
Utilize resistance exercises, recommend the experts at the University of Maryland. Place one hand against the side of your head. Try to touch your ear to your shoulder, using your hand to provide resistance. Repeat on the opposite side. Next, put both hands behind your head, palms facing your scalp. Move your head backward and resist the movement with your hands. Do not tip your chin as you do this exercise. To do a forward resistance exercise, place your palms on your forehead. Move your head forward, resisting the movement with your hands. Hold each exercise for a count of five. Perform 5 to 10 repetitions of each three times a day.
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