Been stuck to your desk the whole day? Is this pretty much your everyday story in office? You really need to bring about a change in your work life. While we can't really stop being on our laptops or spending time at our desk, what we can definitely do is take a little break, from time to time, to move about or stretch. This really isn't a joke. Did you know that some of the most dreadful lifestyle diseases today stem from the fact that we keep sitting for long hours?
Being active is not about choice, it is a necessity. Sure, we all have very hectic jobs where time is never enough. But that doesn't mean that you should let your health take a backseat. You must incorporate little changes in your daily schedule to bring about a positive change. Even when you are at work, you can do a few stretching exercises to release stress and recharge your mind. Even if you have five minutes to spare, that's good enough.
Here are some easy stretching exercises that you can try to relieve stress:
1. Standing Hamstring Stretch
Stand straight with your feet hip-width apart and arms by your sides. Inhale and lift both your hands up, then exhale as you bend forward at the hips and lowering your head towards the floor. Wrap your arms around the backs of your legs and hold for 15 seconds. You will feel the stretch on your hamstring. Release and repeat for 5 times.
2. Side Stretch
You can do this while sitting or standing. Keep both your hands on your lap (if sitting) or on the side (if standing). Take the right hand and stretch it over your head on the left. Try and reach as far as you can. Hold for 15 seconds and repeat on the other side to complete a set. Do this 10 times.
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3. Lunges
They are easy to do and very effective in stretching different groups of muscles.
4. Squats
This almost feels like punishment but it works wonders for the body.You can also try variations with side kicks or lunges.
5. Tricep Stretch
Try this to release stress from your shoulders and triceps. Stand straight and bend your right hand over your back while stretching your left hand to make both the hands meet behind. Hold the pose and keep breathing for 10 seconds. Repeat on the other side.
So take a little break from work and do these simple exercises everyday. If you have some time at hand, you can even do spot jogging or brisk walking. Don't worry about what others will say. For all you know, you may motivate them too.
