Healthy happy you.
After a weekend of swimming in a lake and jumping in a pool, I was starting to feel like I should have gills instead of lungs. My legs and hips were feeling it, too. To get my body back into a relaxed and balanced state, I did a few stretches and yoga poses that have me in tune and ready to roll on my own two land legs. Incidentally, it was the Matsyasana that may have supplied the most Read more
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. To give this one a go read more Read more
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. It certainly perks me up after blogging all day. To find out how to do Read more
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 Read more
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 Read more
People are always asking me "What's a great way to open your shoulders?" Have I got the stretch for you . . . Start in a seated position on your mat with your legs extended straight out in front of you. Bring one arm at a time behind your back so your fingertips are facing away from you. Begin to walk your hands further away from your head, trying (if you can) to keep your arms and hands in a Read more
Chris Hemsworth stars in the upcoming classic fairy tale reboot, Snow White and the Huntsman, alongside Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron. We sat down with the actor during a recent press day for the film outside of London, where he opened up about showing "half a chest" in an almost shirtless scene. Chris also shared details from the set, including a mishap while filming a fight scene with Read more
Just about as common as Downward Facing Dog, Upward Facing Dog pose, or Up Dog as I like to call it, not only elongates and increases flexibility in your spine, but it's a great pose for opening your chest, throat, shoulders, and the front of your thighs. When doing this pose, try not to tense your glutes or crunch your lower back. If it hurts your wrists to have so much weight in your palms, Read more
Running is all about stepping one foot in front of the other. Sounds easy enough, right? But if your running form is incorrect, you'll end up with aches, strains, and injuries that could prevent you from lacing up your sneaks at all. Make sure to avoid these running-form mistakes the next time you hit the treadmill, trail, or pavement. Head: It sometimes feels good to close your eyes and relax Read more
I don't think I've ever met a runner who doesn't suffer from tight hips, hamstrings, or a lower back. The receptive movements and strengthening aspect of running can cause tight muscles that need extra attention. Of course you should never skip the stretching session after a run, but here are three lower-body stretches you should do every day — even on the days you don't run. Open Lizard What Read more
