How Regular Stretching Can Change the Way You Feel
By Genevieve Cunningham
Too many people in today's world skip the very important act of stretching. When we're kids, stretching is basically unnecessary. We're already flexible without even trying. As we get older -- teenagers and young adults -- we have to stretch before we workout in order to prevent injury and maximize performance. And as we age even further, we need to stretch even more. Unfortunately, the older we get, the less likely we are to do any sort of regular stretching. If you've let your stretching fall by the wayside, take a look at these three reasons why you should make it a habit starting today.
It Makes You Feel Leaner
There's something about muscles that are adequately stretched that actually makes you feel leaner overall. Even if you haven't actually lost any weight, you may have the sensation that your muscles are just leaner than they used to be. Why does this matter? Because it completely boosts your confidence. Lean muscles feel healthy, pain-free, and flexible -- which makes you feel a little more confident in your abilities to workout and keep going.
It Makes Movement Easier
When we have too much stiffness or tension in the muscles (which is way more often than we like to admit), it can seriously reduce and restrict movement. We simply lack flexibility, and moving around is a task. Stretching reduces the tension and makes movement easier. It restores that flexibility that we all used to have. If you want to keep active as an adult, maintaining a stretching routine is crucial.
It Makes You Feel Fit
Who doesn't want to feel fit? We all Do! When you keep your muscles engaged, challenged, and flexible, you're definitely going to feel more fit. And with that feeling, you may feel more motivated to continue the quest for a better body and improved health. Never underestimate the power of your feelings. Feeling fit can mean actually getting fit, so stretch your muscles to get started.
Stretching is too easy and feels too good to skip. If you haven't been engaging in regular stretching of some kind, it's time to begin. Fit a routine into your morning or night, and enjoy the wonderful benefits that come with keeping your muscles loose and flexible every day.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Aliso Viejo, Calif.