Stretch Therapist = Stress Therapist

Stress has become very familiar in the world in general. Stress starts in the mind and can spread to affect the body. As described in Mindbody Green “When we get stressed, we tend to tense up, causing our muscles to contract and develop tension”. Two areas of the body can have serious impacts if stress accumulates in them: the trapezius muscles and shoulders, and the hips. The trapezius is a large muscle group running from the back of your head and neck to your shoulder.

 The trapezius and shoulders carry stress that is often caused by thoughts about the future. Tension in this area can also be caused by looking at phones, how we carry our bags, and even how we sleep. Stress carried here can result in headaches, poor posture and fatigue. Stretching can be a great way to relieve tension in this area. Neck stretches and slow head circles can help, as long as we remember to pull our shoulders back during these stretches.

The hips are one area of the body that carries a lot of stress, but often we don’t realize it. Standing and sitting both place stress on the hips. Tight hips can then lead to back pain as well. Stretching every day can make a big difference in the tensions our muscles hold. To release tension in the hips, other important areas to focus on stretching include the hip flexors, quads, and hamstrings. Foam rolling can also help relieve tension in the hips.

 Stretching can also help us to relax and sleep better. Relieving muscle tension through stretching can help relieve the stress we feel, which in turn can help us sleep better. The more sleep we get, the lower the impacts of stress are on our bodies and minds. This creates a cycle of less stress.

 Stress takes a huge toll on the body. Because stress often starts in the brain, meditation and yoga (practices that help relax your mind and body) can be very beneficial in reducing the stress you hold in your body.

Sources:

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/where-your-body-is-storing-stress-and-how-to-release-it