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Relaxation
How to relax
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The Benefits of Stretching
energy flexibility circulation
relaxation coordination
Often the most effective things we can do for our health and well-being are the simplest and most natural. Stretching is one of those things.
If we really lived naturally, we would probably be stretching throughout the day. We do it automatically when we wake up or get up from sitting. But all too often we are engaged in tasks that keep us in one position for too long, and are so focused on getting things done that we don't take time for things like stretching.
Take a moment now and tune into your body. Chances are it's begging to be stretched!
Summary of the Benefits of Stretching. The benefits of stretching can be summarized as follows:
Increased energy levels
Reduced pain
Increased range of motion of joints
Increased flexibility
Increased circulation of the blood to various parts of the body
Reduced muscle tension
Relaxation and stress relief
Enhanced muscular coordination
Improved posture
Greater sense of well-being
Increased flexibility and range of motion. As we age, our muscles tighten and we have less range of motion in our joints. Simple activities that we once took for granted, like cutting our toenails, picking things up from the floor or zipping a dress, can all become difficult. A regular stretching program can help lengthen your muscles and make these daily activities easier and more enjoyable.
Improved circulation. Stretching improves circulation of blood to the muscles and joints. Increased blood circulation, of course, brings nutrients to our cells and removes waste byproducts.
Better posture. Chronically tense and tight muscles contribute to poor posture, which in turn can affect the functioning of our internal organs, not to mention our appearance. Stretching the muscles of the lower back, shoulders and chest can help keep the back in better alignment and improve posture.
Relaxation and stress relief. Stretching, done properly, helps to relax tense muscles which result from stress. The feeling of relaxation brings a sense of well-being and relief from tension.
Reduce or prevent lower back pain. Greater flexibility and range of motion in the hamstrings and muscles of the hips and pelvis helps to reduce the stress on your spine that causes lower back pain.
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Our inspiration for emphasizing stretching on this website comes from our
association with stretching experts, Jacques Gauthier and Dorothée Lavoie.
Jacques healed himself of several debilitating conditions (To learn more about Jacques Gauthier and Dorothée Lavoie, visit their website: www.stretching-plus.com
Stretching DVD
Jacques Gauthier's
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CDs for Relaxing & Healing
Pure Relaxation CD
voice and music to relax by
