Aspen Club and Spa

Here’s something most of us might not think about-stretching as a daily form of exercise. Okay, so your heart isn’t pumping and your legs arent pounding the pavement, but stretching has awesome benefits for the body. Do you know that feeling when you wake in the morning- a huge stretch feels soooo good! We often see people stretching before and after a workout, but the art of stretching can be a workout in itself. It gets the blood flowing, loosens tight muscles, increases elasticity and flexibility, and can help reduce stress. Itcan also give you fresh energy. Give these simple poses a try: Raise your arms above your head and grow long. Sway the body slowly to the right, and then to the left. Take a baby back bend if it feels right.  Head to knee stretches are great for the lower back and hamstrings.  Try a few cat and cow stretches as you kneel in a taple-top position.  Meow and moo, (kids love this!) Lastly, lay on your back and do a few restorative spinal twists by gently taking the knees to one side and the head to the other, arms are out like a T. Always remember to breathe while stretching, holding in the breath does no good. Incorporate stretching at least once a day into your life-in the morning when you rise, during a stroll on your lunch, or even at the office for an afternoon refresher. Meow!