Why not take a few minutes after each shift and try these NHS Stretching Exercises? We have listed 5 stretches that are guaranteed to benefit leave you feeling ready to tackle the day.
Do you come home from a long shift on your feet feeling achey and sore? If that’s the case, stretching regularly and doing yoga exercises could be extremely beneficial for you, your health, and your well-being. So we have included some excellent NHS stretching exercises that are aimed at NHS employees to offer support after a long shift.
Stretching is a great way to start the day, and it’s great for winding down after a long shift at work – especially as a key worker. Some studies that have taken place have suggested that along with a regular fitness routine, stretching could have a significant impact on your health and wellbeing. Plus, it can help you relax, increase your flexibility, reduce backaches and pains, and it can combat other health conditions.
NHS Stretching Exercises
Hold each stretch for 15 to 20 seconds, and repeat each stretch several times.
Upper Back Stretch
If you are looking for great back stretches, then this upper back stretch is the one for you. Start by interlocking your fingers, reach forward, and stretch your arms outward. Raise your arm above your head and hold the position for 15 to 20 seconds. You should begin to feel the stretch between your holder lades, offering some much-needed relief.
Neck Stretch
After a long shift, the neck is one of the more tender areas, so why not practice the Neck Stretch and relieve that ache? Start with relaxed shoulders and gently begin to position your left ear towards your left shoulder and place your hand on your head – go as far as you comfortably can. Then, hold this position for 15 to 20 seconds and repeat on the other side.
Shoulder Stretch
Shoulder Stretch is a simple, yet effective stretch to incorporate into your day-to-day life. Start by relaxing your shoulder blades back and down. Then, reach one arm across your body and use your other arm to hold that potion. Hold for 15 to 20 seconds, repeat on each side, and you should be able to deepen the stretch to your desire.
Knee to Chest
Our next stretch is the Knee to Chest. Start by lying flat on your back and flowy; bring one of your knees towards your chest. Hold the position with your arms or hands, and you should begin to feel a nice stretch in your lower back. This stretch is great after a long day on your feet as it combats backaches.
Spine Twist
The Spinal Twist is another excellent backstretch to practice. Start by lying on your back and raising one of your knees towards your chest. Gently roll your knee to the opposite side, and make sure your shoulder remains on the floor. By doing this exercise, you are slowly stretching your shoulders and upper back, offering much-needed relief after a long shift.
After a long day at work, we are so focused on getting home, having a shower, sleeping, and trying to reset for the next shift – leaving no time for self-care. Because we are so go-go-go all the time, small everyday tasks that keep us mentally healthy can slip away from us – like exercise! Click to learn more.
Do you struggle to squeeze fitness around your busy schedule? Do you often struggle to find time to focus on your mental health after a long week? From work life and home life, finding the time to do a workout or practice mental wellness can often feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to stay that way.
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