To reap the benefits of stretching, you have to do it the right way, Hall says. Hold the stretch at the first sensation of resistance, then breathe your way through it. Imagine and feel the muscle tissue becoming more supple.
Modify, adapt, and adjust the stretch to suit your particular needs. Use padding under your knees for example, or try the same stretch sitting down, lying down, or standing up if it’s more comfortable for you.
Instead of thinking, “I’m so tight!” or “Stretching is agony,” replace your mental soundtrack with “This is just what my body needs” and “I’m getting more flexible each time I stretch.”
Happy stretching!