Stretching your muscles is good for your overall health and wellness. Not only will it keep you calm during exam time, but it will also help you with your overall academic performance. It will enhance your energy levels, get your blood pumping in your body, and keep you healthy. That’s why it’s important to know which stretches you can and should perform while you are studying.
Here are 7 poses you can try in between your study sessions:
POSE 1 – THE TWIST
The twist is a good stretch to do to relieve some tension in the back and shoulders.
POSE 2 – ANKLE TO KNEE POSE
If you are sitting for long periods, you may feel some tension in your lower back and shoulders, and this pose is a great way to stretch out your back. Remember to keep your foot grounded and your spine straight, and push your chest out as far as you can. Keep this pose for 5-10 seconds, but start slow.
POSE 3 – NECK STRETCH
The neck stretch relieves the tension that builds up in your neck from looking at your notes or laptop for long periods of time. This stretch should be done delicately on each side, as the muscles in your neck can be very sensitive. Hold this stretch for 5-10 seconds on each side and remember to start slow.
POSE 4: REACH FOR THE STARS POSE
Hunching over your course material or laptop can cause some tension in the spine, lower back, and shoulder area. Try to reach both hands over your head and hold for 5-10 seconds. (starting slowly), on each side. This pose should come easily, as it’s usually the stretch everyone does when feeling tired and stiff.
POSE 5: TRICEPS AND ARM STRETCH
If you spend your study sessions writing or making notes, this is a good stretch to do to relieve some tension in the upper arms (triceps area). If you push out your chest, you will feel the stretch in the middle of your back as well, relieving tension in the spine. Try to keep this stretch for 5-10 seconds on each side.
POSE 6: THE SHOULDER PULL
The shoulder pull stretch is perfect if you are experiencing shoulder aches and you feel some tension in the neck area. Because you are probably sitting for long periods, reading, writing or working on your assignments, you don’t realize that your head has been in the same position for a long time. This often leads to stiff shoulders. Try holding this stretch for 5-10 seconds on each side.
POSE 7: HAMSTRING STRETCH
Sitting for long periods can cause circulation problems, especially in your legs (pins and needles sound familiar?). To stretch your legs and get the blood flowing, you should try to do some hamstring stretches. Try holding this pose for 5-10 seconds on each side.
Kind Regards,
The SpineAlign Team
