Stretching in Bed

Often, one of the hardest things to do in the morning is to simply get out of bed. This problem is exacerbated if we have stiff muscles and joints. However, there are ways to warm up the body before even getting out of bed.

Stretching before our feet touch the floor in the morning can “help wake up the body and improve the circulation” according to Dr. Beth Frates, who works at the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital.

Normally, you want to warm up your muscles before you stretch, as it gets the blood moving through them. But Dr. Frates says that “the muscles are already on the warmer side when you’ve been in bed all night”. However, she does still suggest taking the time to prepare for stretches by taking a few minutes to flex your joints before you start to stretch.

 Stretches that can be performed in bed

Child’s pose is a great stretch that is easy to perform in bed. To get into this position, kneel with the tops of your feet flat on the surface you’re stretching on. Then, bring your abdomen down to rest on top of your thighs and place your forehead on the same surface. Stretch your arms straight in front of you, with your palms towards the floor.

Gentle back twists back and forth and hamstring stretches (such as toe touches) are also good ones to start waking up the body with.

Stretching at Flxme 

Not only can stretching help wake up your body and get you ready for the day, but it can also release the “feel good” chemicals in the brain which can make you feel better before you even get out of bed to start your day!

While heading out to an assisted stretching appointment does pull you out of bed, stretch therapists have the skills to make the appointment as relaxing as possible, and do all the thinking for you, allowing you to relax into the appointment!

Sources:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/try-these-stretches-before-you-get-out-of-bed

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/best-in-bed-stretches-for-wakeful-winter-mornings

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/improve-flexibility-and-mobility-with-these-morning-stretches

Photo: Unsplash user Katee Lue @kateelue