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Texas ISD School Guide
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Motivation Tips

Stretch to Reduce Stress and Tension
By:MJ Schrader

Stress and tension can build up and make things difficult. It is not just a problem mentally but physically as well. Unfortunately as tension and stress build in your body it becomes a downward spiral of ever growing proportions.

What can I do?

You may think your schedule is full yet a few minutes of stretching can be squeezed into any schedule and can make all the difference. It improves your circulation and flexibility. Your mental stress reduces as your physical tension reduces. You can even stretch at your desk!

Can you scratch your back?

A simple exercise you can do in the car or at your desk is to "scratch your back." You will not actually be scratching you back simply stretching like you are trying. Cross your right arm across the body where your hand rests on your spine. Use your left hand to help push your elbow. Now hold that position, do not bounce, simply stretch and hold for 10 seconds. Then reverse positions with your left reaching for your spine.

Did you reach that itch?

You are going to pretend you still did not reach that area of your back. Raise your right arm over head. Bring the arm down behind your head and again reach for your spine and using your left hand to push your elbow further. Hold for 10 seconds and reverse.

How do you feel?

You may have heard some crackles and pops. Your shoulders and neck should feel more limber. Stress, tension, and stiffness should be a little less. Your circulation and mental attitude should be a bit better. Good benefits from "trying to scratch your back!"

Can you pretend to be a concert pianist?

You probably have seen pianists stretch before playing the piano. Even if you do not know anything about the piano, you can benefit from their stretches. These can help you with your computer keyboard. Interlace your fingers in front of your face, palms out. Now straighten your elbows. Hold that position for 10 seconds. Interlace your fingers over your head and reach straight up, as high as you can reach. Your palms should be facing the ceiling. Hold for 10 seconds again.

"What is that?"

For the next stretches you are going to pretend you are curious about something. You have probably looked at something and wondered what it is. You may have tilted your head to try to decide. That is what you will do here. Tilt your head as far as you can to the right, like you are trying to put your head on your shoulder. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat on the left side. Next you will be curious about something beside you. Turn your head to the right as far as you can go and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat by looking to the right as far as you can.

How do you feel?

You should feel less tension and more energized. While this may not completely recharge your batteries the mental break and the improved circulation can help you feel more relaxed and more energized. You will feel less tension and stress. Stretching is healthy and fun.

Do you know how powerful you are?

Making your inner rockstar shine is the goal of MJSchrader.

If life has left you doubting or wondering if you have a rockstar inside, then you should visit her website.

Make your inner rockstar shine and visit http://MJSchrader.com today.






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