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Chest Opener
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Stretch It: Upper-Back Camel Against the Wall
Backbends feel so invigorating, but doing a full backbend requires so much energy and upper-body strength that sometimes I need a less-intense stretch. This is a variation of the Yoga pose Camel, and it utilizes a wall to help you bring the stretch more into your chest, shoulders, and upper back. It feels so different than doing it on your own.
Stretch It: Chest Opener Against the Wall
I don't know anyone who couldn't use a good stretch in their chest and shoulders. This stretch is great because it allows you to focus on one side at a time, plus you can do it anywhere there's a wall or pole. If you sit and type all day, or if you commute long distances you have to try this chest-opening stretch.
Partner Yoga Pose: Triple Hill
I love when I can find ways to stretch my shoulders, chest, and back since swimming and working at a desk all day can make them so tight. This partner yoga pose called Triple Hill gets its name from the two humps your bums make and the tall "hill" bump your arms make. It's a great total-body stretch like Downward Facing Dog, but since you're standing up and leaning against a partner, you'll get more of an intense stretch in your upper back, shoulders, and hamstrings.
Stretch It: Pec Stretch
We all spend so much time crouched in front of computers it is no wonder we have tight chests and arms. Well this short (just 2 moves!!!) stretching series is great for opening up your chest and stretching out your arms.
Hold for 3 - 5 breaths
- Clasp your hands behind your back keeping your elbows straight.
- Actively open your shoulders and squeeze your shoulder blades together.
- To increase the stretch, look up.
Stretch It: Sleeping Shoulder Stretch
People are always asking me "What's a great way to open your shoulders?" Have I got the stretch for you . .
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Work It Girl: Reverse Arch Stretch
Constantly hovering over your keyboard, with your shoulders hunched over not only contributes to terrible posture, but can be a real pain in the neck and back. I know this stretch looks a little provocative and is reminiscent of FlashDance, but it is the antidote to a day of blogging.
- Sit on the edge of your chair.
No Equipment Necessary: Tabletop Lift
Tabletop may look easy (shown in the photo on the left), but once you hold it for a while, you'll feel your thighs, booty, and triceps burning. It's also a great exercise that will open your shoulders and chest. Here's a variation that will strengthen your core and increase flexibility in your lower back and hamstrings.
Stretch It: Chest Opening Spinal Twist
I feel that no matter what you do, everyone can benefit from twisting and stretching their spines. Here is a wonderful stretch that will seriously open your chest, too.
Music: "Midnight Drive" by Phillip Emanuel
For a detailed description of how to get into this stretch read more
Class Act: Skinny Jeans Fitness Workout
I won't lie, the name caught my attention: Skinny Jeans Workout, a place where denim and my hamstrings collide. I find the fashion / fitness connection slightly amusing, but the 45 minute class left me more than slightly sweaty. It truly is a sculpting workout that borrows from a diverse array of fitness methods.
Stretch It: Shoulder Releasing Spinal Twist
Tense shoulders are a symptom of stress and working at a computer all day, so take a break, get on the floor, and give this relaxing stretch a try. It's a variation of the chest opening spinal twist, and it'll not only relieve tension in your shoulders, but you'll also get a nice stretch in your lower back.
To learn how to get into this pretzel of a stretch, read more
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