Stretch Out the Stress

I’ve noticed lately that the majority of my clients complain of tension and stress in their upper backs, shoulders and necks due to lots of “computer work”.  Let’s face it – most of us spend too much time on the computer.  We sit in the same position at the same desk in the same office at least five days a week, eight hours a day.  I know, I know, that sounds depressing, doesn’t it?  But I’m not going to leave you there without some relief J.

Why does massage work to reduce stress and pain?  One reason is because massage can reduce your body’s production of cortisol, a stress hormone.  And it can boost the body’s production of serotonin, which can improve our mood.  It also provides you with the opportunity to tune into your body and be mindful of the stress you are carrying and focus on releasing it.

To that end, I want to share with you some simple stretches you can do throughout the day while sitting at your computer, or driving in your car, for that matter.  The nice folks at Natural Touch Marketing have put together the following information:

1.       Sit straight with your shoulders relaxed.  Inhale and squeeze your shoul­ders up toward your ears.  Hold tightly for several seconds and relax as you exhale.  Repeat several times.

 2.       Still sitting straight, exhale and let your neck drop forward.  Relax for about 2 seconds, then lift your head to the center.  Then let your head drop to one side, relax, and return to center. Repeat to the other side.  Do the whole sequence 5 to 10 times, the more often the better.

 3.       Stretch your spine. Sit straight in your chair. With your hands clasped behind your head, exhale and turn slowly to the right.  Look behind you, twisting as far as is comfortable.  Don’t strain. Hold for several seconds, and inhale as you return to the starting position.  Repeat on the other side.  Repeat for 10-20 times, up to 3 times a day.

If you have pain with any of these stretches, discontinue until you discuss it with your physician.  These stretches won’t take long, but they’ll go a long way to helping ease the tension you are carrying. 

I end each of my massage sessions with a mantra which I silently repeat to myself:  Soothe the Soul, Calm the Spirit, Heal the Body.  I believe that if we take a few moments each day to be mindful of how stress is affecting our bodies, if we take a few deep breaths, we can decrease our stress at least for a little while and make room for the positive energy which can help make our lives better.

Until next time,

Stacie Beard, LMT

Stacie is a Nationally Certified and Licensed Massage Therapist at Cheveux Salon and Day Spa in Bel Air.  You can reach her at 410-569-3299.