Stretching yields multiple physical benefits. It increases flexibility in your muscles and circulation in the body, relieves stress and broadens the range of motion for your joints, according to MayoClinic.com. To achieve these benefits, add stretches for all parts of your body to your daily routine.
Neck Stretch
Your neck works endlessly, making it one of the most common places for tension to gather. To stretch the neck, stand or sit with your feet hip-width apart, according to the ABC of Fitness site. Keep your arms hanging loosely at your sides and your shoulders in a loose, relaxed position. Position your head so that it is level, then tilt your head slightly and slowly to the right. Tilt until you feel a significant pull of muscle in the other side of your neck. Hold this stance for eight to 10 seconds. Return your neck slowly to the starting position. Perform the stretch on the other side of the neck in the same manner. Complete two to three repetitions.
Shoulder Stretch
Like your neck, your shoulders can accumulate tension. Perform shoulder stretches to not only reduce tension but also to help build muscle in the shoulders. To start, sit or stand with your feet hip-width apart and your legs slightly bent. Bring your right arm across your body so that it is now positioned near your left shoulder. Pull the arm until you feel a significant stretch in the back of your worked shoulder. Take your left arm and hold your right arm just above the elbow. This pushes the right arm a little farther, notes the site. Hold this pull for eight to 10 seconds. Repeat the stretch on the left arm.
Arm Stretch
This arm stretch not only strengthens your biceps and triceps and increases flexibility, but it also helps relieve tension in your arms, upper back and chest. To begin, sit or stand with feed hip-width apart and knees slightly bent. Raise your left arm over your head with your elbow bent so that your hand is pointing toward the ground behind you. Place this hand on your back along the spine. Take your right hand and gently push on the elbow of the left arm to encourage further stretching. Hold this position for 10 seconds. Perform the same stretch for your right arm. Repeat as many times as desired.
Back Stretch
Because your back carries more stress than any other part of your body, it is essential to stretch it regularly. To begin, stand with your feet hip-width apart and your knees loose and slightly bent. Place your hands on your hips and twist your torso to one side at the waist. Twist until you feel the pull of the stretch. Hold this stance for 10 to 15 seconds. Repeat on the other side.
Hamstring Stretch
The hamstring muscles are actually three muscles that make up the back of your upper leg. These muscles are what allow you to flex your knee. To strengthen and flex these muscles, as well as the hips, perform a hamstring stretch. Sit on the floor with your right leg straight out in front of you. Bend the left leg and cross it over your right leg so that your left foot is now to the right of your right knee. Pull your left knee across your body toward your right shoulder. Hold this stance for 10 to 20 seconds. Repeat this stretch on the other leg.
