Start fresh with quick, gentle stretching
Set yourself up for a great day by adding a short stretching session to your morning routine. Try these five moves right from bed when you wake up to refresh your body and mind. Spread out on your sheets and make sure you have room to lengthen your arms and legs in all directions. Go through the list of stretches and take 5-10 breaths in each position.
Full-body stretch
Spread out from the tips of your fingers down to your toes. Find length along your entire body. Stretch the sides of your body by reaching one arm a little more, then the other.
Knees-to-chest stretch
Bring your knees into your chest and hold them with your arms. Pull them in close and rock from side to side on your back. Focus on relaxing your lower back and hips.
Lying twist
Release your knees and, keeping them bent, let them fall over to one side. Spread your arms wide and try to keep both your shoulders resting flat. Breathe in the twist, then drop your knees to the other side.
Lying figure four
Place your feet flat in front of your hips, knees bent. Lift one leg to place your ankle above the top of the opposite knee. You should feel a stretch in the hip of your lifted leg. For a deeper stretch, hold the back of the supporting leg and pull it toward your chest. When you’re ready, switch the cross of your legs to stretch the other hip.
Seated side stretch
Sit up with your legs either crossed or hanging off the side of your bed. Reach both arms straight up, then plant one hand beside your hip and reach up and over your head with the other. Breathe into the side of your body getting lengthened, then switch to the other side.
Your body might feel stiff in the morning and that’s okay. Be gentle as you move through each stretch and head into the day with a little more room to breathe.
In this article:
Was this article helpful?
Learn about low-impact exercise and the health benefits for your body and mind, as well as ideas for starting low-intensity activities.
Enjoying the holiday season doesn’t mean your health has to be thrown off track. Here are tips and tricks to stay on track during the holiday season.
Discover a variety of fresh and delicious fruit recipes perfect for spring. Enjoy healthy and tasty dishes that highlight seasonal fruits.
Food cravings are natural. We all have a taste for something specific from time to time. It’s important to understand why you’re having a craving.
We all tend to indulge during the holiday season. Luckily, it’s possible to add a dash of health and lighten up desserts.
Eating more protein does not necessarily mean eating more meat. There are many lower fat protein options.
Get advice on treating acne effectively, regardless of your age or the season. Learn about different treatment options and skincare routines to keep your skin clear and healthy.
Focusing on flexibility and balance builds a foundation of fitness that will positively affect almost all elements of your life, especially as you grow older.
Enjoy summer get-togethers while sticking to your health goals. Discover tips for staying active, making healthy food choices, and staying hydrated at your next outdoor event. Learn how to balance fun and wellness with practical advice from Teladoc.
Digging into ice cream after a tough day? You're not the only one soothing yourself with food to help deal with stress. Learn how to curtail this behavior.
Building your healthier, together.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.