The science of sleep is a rapidly evolving area of study that warrants our attention, especially now as we are collectively experiencing forced changes in our routines, livelihoods, and recreational pursuits. Researchers and sleep experts contend that adequate, restorative sleep is the best recovery tool we have. It’s the universal health care provider for virtually all body systems, and it keeps us in balance and running optimally. A 2016 study review of studies found a link between meditative movements (such as tai chi and yoga) and improved sleep quality. This improved sleep quality was further linked to a better quality of life.
Bear Hug – This stretch works the rhomboids and trapezius of your upper back. It helps to alleviate shoulder blade discomfort or pain that’s caused by poor posture, bursitis, or frozen shoulder.
Neck Stretches – These stretches will help to relieve tension in your head, neck, and shoulders. Try to focus on maintaining good posture when doing these.
Child’s Pose – Child’s Pose is a resting stretch that’s similar to a kneeling lat stretch, but more relaxed. It’s perfect for tuning into your breath, relaxing your body, and reducing stress. It also helps to relieve pain and tension in your back, shoulders, and neck.
Low Lunge – This lunge stretches your hips, thighs, and groin. Opening your chest helps to relieve tension and pain in this area as well as your back and shoulders. Try to stay relaxed when doing this pose, and don’t push yourself too hard.
Seated forward bend – This stretch helps loosen up your spine, and hamstrings. It also stretches your lower back.
Legs-up-the-wall pose – This is a restorative pose that helps reduce tension in your back, shoulders and neck while promoting relaxation.
Reclining bound angle pose – This relaxing hip opener can relieve muscle tension in your hips and groin, making it especially good if you spend most of your day sitting.
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