Fatherly
 
Aug 29, 2022
 
Sit a lot? Even if you have perfect posture, that’s not good news for your body on multiple levels. For starters, sitting eight hours a day has been shown to raise your risk of stroke, heart disease, and hypertension, to name a few. Moreover, studies show that long periods of sitting can lead to lower back pain, while other research indicates it can strain the muscles in your neck and shoulder.

But if you’ve got a desk job, sitting is kind of par for the course. What you need (in addition to regular exercise) is a morning stretching routine that will work out the kinks and set you up for feeling good. It’s a simple commitment with a big return. Below you’ll find just that.
 
FITNESS
 
The Ultimate Morning Stretch Routine
 
Want to keep your body limber? Of course you do.These seven simple, effective stretches will build a great foundation.
 
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Stiff Neck? Add These 3 Stretches To Your Routine
 
01
 
Foam Roller Thoracic Extensions
A simple foam roller exercise can help you regain or maintain the ability for your thoracic spine to extend. To perform the exercise, lay on your back with a foam roller horizontally placed along your shoulder blades. Use your hands to support your head and have your knees up with your feet planted on the ground. Then gently stretch back, moving your torso toward the floor.
 
01
 
Wall Angels
Maintaining the muscles around your scapula is another key piece to maintaining a strong neck. Wall Angels are a great way to maintain those muscles—specifically the middle trapezius, rhomboids, and lower trapezius. Stand against a wall with your lower back flush the wall and your head touching the wall as well. Bring your arms out to your sides and bring your elbows to as close to a 90-degree angle as feels comfortable. Place the backs of your fingertips on the wall and draw your hands up the wall and back down slowly.
 
01
 
Cobra Exercise
This classic yoga move addresses common impairments in areas referred to as the deeper neck flexors and the cervical extensors. At its most basic, you lay on your stomach, keep your elbows at a 90-degree angle with the floor and slowly bring your head up.

Here are some more neck stretches and strengthening exercises to try.
 
 
FURTHER READING
This Tabata Push-Up Challenge Will Get You Seriously Fit In 30 Days
Intuitive Eating Is How You Heal Your Relationship With Food
7 Bodyweight Exercises To Injury-Proof Runners
 
INTERVIEW
 
Mark Wahlberg And Kevin Hart Make Their Own Time
 
How two of the busiest dads on the planet find the time for career, family, and fun.
 
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ADVICE
 
Stuck In A Relationship Rut? Here Are 7 Ways To Break Out
 
Every relationship experiences lulls — but they’re usually a sign that something needs to be addressed. Here’s how to bust out.
 
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CONTROVERSIAL PARENTING
 
Child Leashes Deserve All The Hate They Get, Experts Say
 
But not for the reasons you might think.
 
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MENTAL HEALTH
 
5 Sneaky, Subtle Signs You Could Have High-Functioning Anxiety
 
People with high-functioning anxiety often excel at work but feel they lack a greater purpose.
 
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SEX
 
How to Talk to Your Partner About Having More Sex
 
This is what the discussion should look like.
 
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