Desk to Stretch - Get Active in the Office!

Do your shoulders, neck or back ever hurt after a day in the office? It can easily happen when we sit down for a long period of time – and many of us spend more than seven hours a day at our desk.

These aches and pains can make us more uncomfortable and less productive. *People in the UK took a massive 30 million days off work last year because of muscle and bone problems.

One solution to try is to make sure you’re stretching often at work. A few stretches a day can make a big difference to your health in the long run.

Why not try some of these exercises right now!

1. Give your knee a hug

While sitting at your desk, hold on to your shin and pull your knee towards your chest and hold it as close to your chest as you can. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat.

2. Touch your twinkle toes

While sitting at your desk, straighten your legs and reach out to touch your toes.

3. The Wave

Whilst keeping your back upright, lift your arm over your head and reach towards the opposite side.

4. The Shrug

Raise both your shoulders towards your ears. Hold for 10 seconds and release.

5. Reach for the Stars

Whilst at your desk and humming the S Club 7 classic song, interlock your hands and reach for the stars with palms facing the ceiling. Hold for 10 seconds.

6. Give yourself a pat on the back

Take your left arm and grab your right shoulder. With your right hand, grab your elbow and gently pull it towards your right shoulder. Repeat with opposite arm.

7. Neck Breaker

Place one hand on the opposite side of your head. Very gently, pull your head towards your shoulder. Your shoulder does not have to touch your ear. Small movements are good enough.

We’ve also found more stretch exercises you can try from BUPA.

Fancy trying Pilates to improve your core strength and flexibility?

If you are new to Pilates our Beginner’s Course will take you through the basics, alignment, breathing and centring. Ready to move on to the mixed ability classes to continue your practice. We keep our classes small, so that you have the highest quality teaching and to allow for individual attention.  Email me for more information and to come and try and free taster class!

Building and maintaining good habits can provide our lives with a positive framework, but these habits don’t simply happen by chance. It’s pretty easy to fall into bad habits that impede life around the house. A happy routine can support a happy mood, so if we stick to positive routines around our homes, we stand a good chance of keeping negative habits at bay.  Discover Habits For A Happier Life At Home from Porch.com.