4 Desk Stretches to Relieve Neck and Shoulder Tension

POPSUGAR Photography | Jaime Young
POPSUGAR Photography | Jaime Young

Sitting at a desk for hours on end, staring at your computer screen, and scrunching your shoulders as you type can create a stiff neck and tense shoulders, or even a headache. Take a break and do these four stretches at your desk to offer some stress relief.

01
Behind the Back Neck Stretch
POPSUGAR Studios

Behind the Back Neck Stretch

This easy move offers a deep stretch in the sides of your neck.

  • Stand with your feet hip distance apart, arms by your sides.
  • Reach both hands behind your backside, and hold onto your left wrist with your right hand. Use your right hand to gently straighten your left arm and pull it away from you slightly.
  • To increase the stretch in your neck, slowly lower your right ear toward your shoulder.
  • Stay here for 30 seconds and then switch sides.
02
Seated Clasping Neck Stretch
POPSUGAR Studios

Seated Clasping Neck Stretch

Stretch the upper back and neck with one subtle move.

  • Clasp your hands and bring both palms to the back of your head. Sitting with a tall spine, ground your hips firmly into your seat. Begin to gently press your hands toward your thighs, tucking your chin into your chest. As you press down, use your hands to gently pull your head away from your shoulders. This will intensify the stretch even more.
  • Hold here for at least 30 seconds, and then slowly lift your head up and release your hands.
03
Reverse Arch Stretch
POPSUGAR Studios

Reverse Arch Stretch

We love this move that opens the chest, shoulders, and front of your neck.

  • Sit on the very edge of your chair. Reach your hands behind you and hold on to the back of the chair. Press your chest forward, arching your spine. If it feels comfortable, let your head fall back slightly to open through the front of the neck.
  • Continue to breathe, feeling the front of your body open up as you extend backward. Hold this position for 30 seconds or as long as you want. Then slowly lift your head up, straighten your spine, and release hold of the chair.
04
Triceps Stretch
POPSUGAR Photography | Jaime Young

Triceps Stretch

Tight triceps will appreciate this quick stretch.

  • Reach your left arm over your head, placing your left hand on the front of your right elbow.
  • Gently pull your right elbow back until you feel a little tension
  • Release your right elbow and lower your right arm to your side.
  • Bend your left elbow and repeat the stretch with your left arm.