Tuesday, September 16, 2008

My Favorite Stretch

All those electric shocks last week must have loosened things up a bit, because today I was finally able to do my favorite stretching exercise! I haven't been able to do it for months, my right arm just wouldn't cooperate. This is a terrific and simple stretch for upper back muscles, and perfect for anyone who sits in a chair for any length of time.

Stand with your feet about hip-width apart and arms at your sides. Raise one arm straight up, bend it at the elbow and bring your hand down behind your neck and upper back. With your other arm straight down, bend it at the elbow and bring that hand up behind your back. Can you touch the fingers of one hand with the other? If not, put a little effort into bringing them closer together. If you can clasp the fingers of both hands together and hold for 10 seconds you've succeeded in doing a complete stretch! Now switch arm positions and stretch again.

Don't you feel better? I know I do!