Stretch It: Seated Neck Release


Updated 02/25/10 1:34 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 2 comments

How to Relieve Neck Tension

When I'm working at my computer all day, I can feel the tension building up in my neck and shoulders. Throughout the day, I try to remember to take breaks to get up and walk around, but this seated neck stretch really does wonders. For details on how to feel this delicious neck release, and ways to feel a deeper stretch, read more Read more

Where to Put Your Tongue to Relax Your Neck


Updated 05/05/09 10:42 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 13 comments

Where to Put Your Tongue to Relax Your Neck

I heard this advice when I walked into my first yoga class years ago: to keep your jaw and neck relaxed, place your tongue on the roof of your mouth. But this tip has a broader application. Since you can't clench your jaw or grimace with your tongue is purposefully place there, this simple move is great for strength training. It will help remove unnecessary tension from your face, neck, chest, Read more

Strike a Yoga Pose: Fierce


Updated 05/22/12 12:49 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 2 comments

How to Do Fierce Pose in Yoga, Also Called Chair Pose

After learning Ashtanga Yoga's Sun Salutation A, it's time to learn the poses in Sun Salutation B. It begins with a pose called Fierce, which may look easy but is a killer move for your thighs and glutes when done correctly. It also strengthens your core and stretches your calves, so it's an essential move for runners and high-heel wearers alike. Sanskrit Name: Utkatasana English Translation: Read more

For Better Sleep, Do These 3 Things 20 Minutes Before Bed


Updated 05/10/12 5:05 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

What to Do Before Bed to Sleep Better

We spend about a third of our lives in slumberland, but many people complain of not sleeping well. If you have a tough time falling asleep or you toss and turn in the middle of the night, try exercising during the day and limiting alcohol and caffeine a few hours before bedtime. But if you are doing this already and still have troubles, here are three things to do immediately before hitting the Read more

13 Ways to De-Stress During the Workday


Updated 03/22/12 7:03 AM · Posted by · 1 comment

Tips to De-Stress at Work

It's natural for work to leave you a little stressed, but if you're a frazzled mess from nine to five, it's important to step back and relax. Not sure how to loosen up? From doodling to redecorating, here are 13 easy ways to de-stress during the workday: Finish the tough stuff first. Try to get your most complicated tasks out of the way early in the day so that they're not looming over you for Read more

5 Tips to Build a Better Bridge Pose


Updated 03/20/12 5:20 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Do Bridge Pose in Yoga

If you're looking for a gentler inversion alternative than Wheel Pose, Bridge (Sanskrit name: Setu Bandha Sarvangasana) should be your go-to. While my favorite — and least favorite! — poses are constantly evolving, I have always been partial to this beautiful heart-opening pose. The reason? Although it's very active and energizing, there's also something relaxing and calming about Bridge. Read more

Nighttime Habits That Are Ruining Your Sleep and Health


Updated 02/29/12 9:56 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

What Not to Do While You Sleep

You slip under the covers, turn off the light, and rest your head on your pillow. Seems simple and perfect, but here are some things you could be doing in bed that harm your health. Grinding your teeth: Formally called sleep bruxism, many people unknowingly clench their jaw or grind their teeth at night, which can lead to tension headaches, earaches, irritated tissue on the inside of your Read more

4 Desk Stretches to Relieve Neck and Shoulder Tension


Updated 11/09/11 4:40 AM · Posted by · 1 comment

Desk Stretches to Relieve Neck and Shoulder Tension

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. Behind the Back Neck Stretch: offers a deep stretch in the sides of your neck Sitting on the edge of a sturdy chair, reach both hands Read more

What Not to Do in Wheel Pose


Updated 01/25/12 1:35 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Tips For Backbend Wheel Pose

Doing Full Backbend, also known as Wheel pose, isn't exactly on the list of beginner moves. It's demanding both from a flexibility as well as a strength standpoint, so it's best to stick to Half Wheel, Camel, and other easier variations before trying your hand at Full Backbend. When you are ready, here are some things to keep in mind to ensure you're doing this heart-opening pose safely and Read more

Mistakes You're Making on the Pilates Mat


Updated 02/07/12 5:16 AM · Posted by · 2 comments

Common Mistakes in Pilates Mat Classes

Mat classes are the most affordable way to reap the benefits of Pilates. Taught across the country at gyms and private studios, group classes mean you don't have an instructor cuing and correcting your every move. Make the most of your time on the mat and be mindful of these common mistakes I've seen in classes over the years. Not Going Deep There are many benefits to Pilates, but getting in Read more