Marilyn Thithorpe
Since the advent of yoga, meditation and Pilate’s people have found a new way to Zen out. Stretching allows the muscles in the body to stretch and release cause and instant boost of energy and relaxation. There are quite a few stretch moves that you can do in your very own living room with just a picture guide or video. Here are a few to get you going.
Half rainbow: This position has you sitting cross legged with one arm on you thigh. You must reach over with your other arm and try to reach the other side. This step really pulls in your side and arm muscles, causing instant relief. Hold the pose for 30 seconds and then move to the other side.
Childs Reach: Sit with your knees tucked under you and your back straight. Slowly bend forward, while taking your hands across your chest and laying it on the floor behind you palm up. Your head should be touching the floor in this position. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat.
Spine Twist: Perhaps one of the most seen moves in yoga. For this position you must sit on the floor with your legs stretched out before you hid width apart. Slowly place each palm on the opposite elbow and rotate to one side, hold the position for a few seconds and then rotate to the other side. Do this position for about 10 times and feel the pain waning away.
Candle Cross stretch: Lay on your back, with your feet bent resting on the floor. Cross one leg over the other and slowly lift your legs in
that position, into the air, towards your shoulders. This might feel complicated at first but once you get the hang it’s perfectly easy. Keep pushing yourself till you can bear it no longer, settle your feet to the stating position and take a deep breath before beginning on the other leg.
Seated Glute Stretch: This position is similar to the Candle Cross but rather than laying down you will be sitting up. Sit on the floor with your arms resting behind you. Bend your right knee at an angle and place your right ankle on your left ankle. You should immediately feel a pull on your left glute, for better effects bring your ankle closer to your buttocks. Hold the position for 10 seconds and switch to the other side.