Simple Stretches to Undo the Damage of Sitting All Day

Lisette Marie

Stretch 4 - The Chest Opener

A young woman in activewear performs a yoga pose against a white studio background, promoting wellness. Photo Credit: Pexels @Photo By: Kaboompics.com

Sitting often leads to rounded shoulders and a hunched posture, which can cause tightness in the chest and upper back. The Chest Opener stretch is designed to counteract this by opening up the chest muscles and promoting better alignment. To perform this stretch, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and clasp your hands behind your back, then gently lift your arms and open your chest. This movement encourages the shoulders to move back and down, reducing strain on the neck and upper back. Regularly practicing the Chest Opener can significantly improve posture and alleviate discomfort associated with sitting.

Stretch 5 - The Spinal Twist

A woman performs a seated twist yoga pose on a pink mat indoors. Photo Credit: Pexels @Alexy Almond

The Spinal Twist is a versatile stretch that targets the spine, shoulders, and hips, promoting flexibility and relieving tension. While seated, place one hand on the opposite knee and gently twist your torso to one side, using your hand for leverage. This movement helps to decompress the spine, improve circulation, and enhance mobility. The Spinal Twist is particularly effective for relieving lower back pain, a common complaint among those who sit for long periods. Incorporating this stretch into your routine can help maintain spinal health and prevent discomfort.

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Stretch 4 - The Chest Opener

Stretch 5 - The Spinal Twist

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