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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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Get Lifted: Chest-Opening Triceps Lift
Many strength training moves such as Triceps Dips and Bent Over Rows target the backs of the arms, but this move will also tone your upper back and stretch the chest and shoulders. You'll only need one dumbbell for this exercise.
To learn how to tone your triceps, read more
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
Geek Tip: Keep Your Peepers Healthy With Eye Yoga
I learned a new series of postures in my yoga class last week that I think every geek, gamer, and programmer needs to know about. We were just finishing up the session with a traditional pose, but before the class ended, we did five minutes of eye yoga. The exercises help relax the eyes, reduce eye strain, and are even supposed to help improve vision by strengthening your eye muscles. After doing these in class, my eyes definitely felt more relaxed. Bring on the all night gaming sessions!
Open Your Heart
I can hear Madonna in my head singing "Open Your Heart" and in my mind's eye see her doing her yoga moves on stage. Why not celebrate V-Day with a little bit of yogic love? Physically stretching the muscles in your chest, shoulders, and belly allows for a deep emotional release, appreciation and honor of yourself and those you care about, and a feeling of lightness and contentment.
Strike a Yoga Pose: Bound Extended Side Angle
Although yoga poses vary between different types of yoga, Extended Side Angle is a basic standing posture you'll see in most any class you take. This pose strengthens your legs, and makes you feel bold, yet relaxed. We've already tried the variation of this pose known as Twisting Extended Side Angle, so here's another variation you can try.
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