Page 56 - Kick-AssWellnessHandbook_eBook

Secret # 26: Stretch

Stretching is common before and after a workout, but also has its
place as part of a daily routine. Stretching when you get out of bed,
when you stand up, and periodically throughout your day has great

physical and mental health benefits. Make a conscious effort to
stretch at least two or three times a day, and even more if you have
desk job.

Stretching improves

flexibility by moving joints
through a complete range
of motion. If we don’t ask

our joints to move, they
will become stiff and sore.
Stretching keeps muscles
responsive and improves
your physical performance. Stretching breaks down chemical cross-

bridges where two proteins create tension in the muscle. Stretching
encourages this cross-bridge to break, and releases the tension
and stiffness.

When we don’t use muscles, especially those in our legs, they
have less blood supply. When circulation decreases, toxins can
accumulate. When you stretch, you compress the muscle and raise

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