3 Reasons Why Flexibility Should Be a Goal
By Genevieve Cunningham
Flexibility is something we don't give a lot of thought to. When we're young, we tend to be flexible by nature. We don't really have to work at it -- it's just the way young bodies seem to be made. As we get older, we tend to lose some of this natural flexibility. It's a gradual process that sneaks up on us, and most of the time, we blame it on age. It's something that's unavoidable, right? But flexibility doesn't have to disappear with age -- in fact, it shouldn't. If you've noticed your flexibility waning over the years, take a look at these three reasons why improving and maintaining flexibility should be a top goal.
Injury Prevention
The more flexible the body, the less likely we are to be injured. As we get older, we tend to get injuries from simple movements. We might pull a muscle lifting or hurt our backs when we turn the wrong way. But if we're flexible, then these simple situations become less dangerous. If you want your body to suffer as little as possible, flexibility is key.
Comfort
Let's be honest: We're all interested in comfort. It's why we have comfort foods and big sweaters and cozy blankets. Comfort matters. But the ultimate comfort is when your body is comfortable all on its own. Flexibility helps us avoid many aches and pains. It helps us be more comfortable, more mobile, more at ease. If you like the idea of a comfortable body, it's imperative that you keep your body loose and limber.
Youthfulness
Flexibility is associated with youth. It comes naturally to youth. It's easy for youth. When we think of someone in their golden years, we often think of a stiff body or an immobile body. If we can keep our flexibility intact, we can keep that youthful appearance and feeling. And seriously, who doesn't want to feel young and able? You already feel young in your mind -- now keep your body on board with more flexibility and range of motion.
If you want to stay flexible, you have to stretch every day. You have to stay moving. You have to use your body! Flexibility is so important. Make better flexibility a goal in your life, and you may be able to experience these benefits and many others as well for years into the future.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in West Covina, Calif.