Relax With 10 mins Stretching

Making the effort to stretch properly after a training session or at the end of a days work is a great way to relax.Stretching reduces tension in the muscles and helps them to recover from exercise or work stress. Additionally, by focussing on deep breathing when performing the stretches, a la Yoga, you can use the time to calm your mind. All in all, a ten minute stretch routine each day can be very beneficial.

To stretch correctly follow these guidelines:

1. Slowly go to the stretch position, when you feel a mild tension in the muscles.
2. Try to relax the rest of your body, focus on the stretching muscle.
3. Breathe in and out through your nose, smoothly and deeply.
4. Ensure your breathes out are longer than your breathes in.
5. Hold each stretch for 60 seconds. Repeat each stretch two times.

Attached are diagrams of a selection of stretches for a variety of muscles. Combine these and any other stretches you enjoy to make up a stretching routine.

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