man walking in golden leaves

Fall Fitness and Health

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Autumn – a season of crisp air, colorful foliage, and a palpable transition from the long days of summer. As we bid farewell to summer, it’s crucial to recalibrate our fitness and health routines to align with the season’s unique characteristics.

Understanding the Fall Season

The fall season ushers in a host of physical and psychological changes. With temperatures dropping and the days shortening, our bodies and minds naturally adapt. One might argue that autumn provides an excellent backdrop for health and fitness, and here’s why: The moderate climate is ideal for outdoor workouts, and the allure of fall’s scenic beauty can serve as a motivating factor to get out and move.

Fall Fitness: Embracing the Outdoors

There’s nothing like the sensation of cool autumn air on your face as you jog through a path blanketed with rust-colored leaves. Activities like running, hiking, and cycling not only benefit from the fall’s cooler temperatures, which can increase endurance and calorie burn, but also provide an ever-changing landscape that can boost mental wellness.

However, as we make the most of outdoor exercises, it’s essential to consider some fall-specific nuances. The attire you choose should ideally incorporate layers to adjust to the fluctuating temperatures. With daylight saving coming into play, ensuring visibility during dusk workouts becomes paramount. And a crucial safety note – those beautiful fallen leaves can be slippery, so always be mindful of the terrain.

Fall Nutrition: Savoring the Season’s Bounty

The harvest season offers a plethora of nutritional wonders. Pumpkins, squashes, apples, root vegetables, and various nuts and seeds are ripe for the picking. Embracing these seasonal foods is not only a treat for the palate but also benefits our health. They are often fresher, packed with nutrients, and align with our body’s natural fall tendencies.

And as the holiday season approaches, a word on indulgence – it’s all about balance. Warm, hearty soups, apple and nut salads, and even a homemade healthy pumpkin spice latte can all find a place in your autumn menu. Enjoy the festivities, but be mindful of portion sizes and aim for a balanced plate.

Mental Health: Addressing the Fall Blues

While the season is abundant in beauty, it can sometimes bring about feelings of melancholy, often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Recognizing this is the first step. Strategies like light therapy, engaging in physical activity, and maintaining social connections can help navigate these feelings. Also, practices like mindfulness and meditation, especially when done amidst nature, can provide solace and connection during these times.

Other Health Considerations

With fall also comes the onset of flu season. Focusing on immune-boosting foods such as leafy greens, nuts and seeds, oily fish and citrus fruits can prepare the body to fend off illnesses. For those susceptible to allergies, being aware of triggers, especially with fallen leaves and specific pollens, is crucial. Lastly, as the air becomes drier, adapting your skincare routine to maintain hydration and protect from the elements is a must.

Transitioning to Winter

As the last leaves fall and temperatures dip further, it’s a reminder that winter is around the corner. Reflect on your fall achievements, and consider how you can transition your routines to remain active and healthy in the colder months.

In conclusion, each season offers its own set of challenges and opportunities. Embracing the beauty and unique aspects of autumn can lead to a fulfilling and healthful season. Celebrate the transition, stay active, eat wholesomely, and keep your spirits high as you navigate through the enchanting months of fall.

3 women on bikes in front of the Colloseum in Rome

Stay Agile While Traveling

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Traveling is an exhilarating experience that allows us to explore new cultures, landscapes, and perspectives. Amid the excitement of new adventures, it’s crucial to prioritize our physical well-being. Prolonged sitting during transportation and irregular routines can impact our bodies negatively. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the significance of staying flexible and mobile while traveling and provide practical tips to maintain physical health throughout your journey.

The Impact of Travel on the Body

Traveling often involves extended periods of sitting and exposure to unfamiliar environments. These factors can lead to muscle stiffness, joint discomfort, and decreased flexibility. Being mindful of our body’s needs during travel is essential to make the most of our experiences.

1. The Importance of Staying Flexible and Mobile

Maintaining flexibility and mobility is vital for a smooth travel experience. A flexible body allows us to engage in various activities without restrictions, while mobility ensures we can navigate new places comfortably. Embracing these aspects helps us adapt to changing circumstances and enhances our overall travel enjoyment.

2. Warm-up and Stretching

Prior to starting your day’s adventures, take a few minutes to warm up and stretch your muscles. Gentle exercises like shoulder rolls, hip circles, and neck stretches prepare your body for the day ahead. Incorporate basic yoga poses, such as forward folds and lunges, to improve flexibility and blood circulation.

3. Active Sightseeing

Rather than relying solely on public transport, consider walking or cycling to explore nearby attractions. Active sightseeing not only keeps you physically engaged but also allows you to discover hidden gems and experience local life more intimately.

4. Incorporate Short Workouts

While maintaining a regular workout routine while traveling might be challenging, short bodyweight workouts can be effective and convenient. Exercises like squats, push-ups, and planks require minimal space and can be done in your accommodation or outdoor settings.

5. Yoga and Meditation

Practicing yoga and meditation can provide both physical and mental benefits during travel. Yoga enhances flexibility and core strength, while meditation promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Look for local yoga classes or use mobile apps for guided sessions.

6. Stay Hydrated and Mindful of Nutrition

Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining flexibility and mobility. Carry a reusable water bottle and make a conscious effort to drink enough water throughout the day. Prioritize a balanced diet, incorporating fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, to fuel your body for optimal performance.

7. Schedule Rest and Recovery

Balancing exploration with sufficient rest is essential for overall well-being. Dedicate time each day to relax, read, or simply unwind to allow your body to recover from the physical demands of travel.

In Conclusion

Staying flexible and mobile while traveling is fundamental to embracing the full potential of your journey. By incorporating warm-up exercises, active sightseeing, short workouts, yoga, and meditation, you can maintain physical health and enhance your travel experiences. Remember to stay hydrated and mindful of nutrition, and always schedule time for rest and recovery. Prioritizing your body’s needs during travel ensures you’ll have the energy and agility to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of new destinations. Enjoy the journey, and may your adventures be filled with joy and exploration!

girl sipping green smoothie through a straw next to a bowl of green fruits and vegetables

Supercharge Your Immune System Naturally: Easy Tips for a Stronger Defense

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Hey there, health-conscious folks! It’s time to give your immune system the love and support it deserves. Our immune system is like a shield that protects us from pesky illnesses, and while there’s no secret potion for invincibility, we can strengthen our defenses naturally. In this article, we’ll dive into simple and casual tips to boost your immune system and enhance your overall well-being. Get ready to unleash your body’s superhero powers!

 

Chow Down on Immune-Boosting Foods

Fueling your body with the right nutrients is key to superhero-level immunity. Load up on fruits and veggies like citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens, and bell peppers. Spice things up with turmeric, ginger, and garlic for their immune-enhancing properties. Don’t forget to include lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats like avocados and nuts. Your taste buds and immune system will thank you for this delicious and nutritious feast!

Embrace Quality Sleep like a Boss

Who knew that catching those Zzz’s could be so powerful? Quality sleep is like a secret weapon for your immune system. Aim for 7-9 hours of shut-eye each night to let your body repair and recharge. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, make your sleep sanctuary cozy, and ditch those late-night caffeine and screen time habits. Your immune system will be recharged and ready to take on the world.

Keep Stress at Bay

No time for stress when you’re on a mission to boost immunity! Stress weakens our defenses, so it’s time to kick it to the curb. Unleash your inner Zen master with meditation, deep breathing exercises, or some good ol’ yoga. Find your happy place by journaling, going for a nature walk, or bonding with loved ones. Remember, taking care of your mental well-being is just as important as flexing those physical muscles.

Break a Sweat and be a Fitness Guru

Let’s get moving and grooving for an immune system that’s ready to rock! Regular exercise is like a superhero training program for your body. It improves blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and activates those immune-boosting cells. So, whether you’re a jogger, dancer, yogi, or power walker, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Suit up and get ready to unleash your inner fitness guru!

Soak Up Some Vitamin D

Hello, sunshine! Basking in the sun is not just for good vibes; it’s also a fantastic source of immune-boosting vitamin D. Spend time outdoors to soak up those rays and let your body produce this superhero nutrient naturally. If the sun isn’t shining bright, don’t worry. Opt for vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, or consult a healthcare pro for supplements. Get that dose of D and let your immune system shine!

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Don’t forget to drink up, my friends! Staying hydrated is like providing your immune system with a power boost. Keep that water bottle handy and sip throughout the day. Water flushes out toxins, aids digestion, and ensures nutrients are transported efficiently. So, raise that glass and make hydration your sidekick in the battle for a stronger immune system.

Gut Health is the Real MVP

Don’t underestimate the power of a healthy gut! Supporting your gut health can do wonders for your immune system. Add gut-friendly foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi to your diet. These heroes contain beneficial bacteria that keep your gut in tip-top shape, supporting immunity and overall wellness.

OVERHEAD VIEW OF A MAN LYING ON A MASSAGE TABLE RECEIVING THERAPY

Athletic Recovery and the Benefits of Stretch Therapy

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Athletic recovery is an essential component of any fitness routine, whether you’re a weekend warrior, a young athlete, or a professional athlete. Recovery is the process by which your body repairs and adapts to the physical stresses of exercise, and it’s just as important as the workout itself. In this article, we’ll explore why athletic recovery is important, how pro athletes take care of themselves, and how stretch therapy from StretchSPOT can help improve performance.

The Importance of Recovery for Athletes

For weekend warriors and young athletes, recovery is essential for injury prevention and overall health. Overuse injuries, such as tendinitis and stress fractures, are common among young athletes and can be prevented by incorporating rest and recovery into their training routine. Recovery can also help to prevent burnout, improve sleep, and reduce stress levels. Some common recovery strategies for young athletes and weekend warriors include foam rolling, stretching, and light activity on rest days.

Professional athletes, on the other hand, take recovery to the next level. With the pressure of competition and the demands of a grueling training schedule, pro athletes must prioritize recovery in order to perform at their best. Pro athletes have access to a range of recovery tools and techniques, including massage therapy, cryotherapy, and infrared saunas. They also work closely with nutritionists and sports psychologists to optimize their recovery and mental health.

Stretch Therapy for Recovery

One recovery technique that is gaining popularity among pro athletes and weekend warriors alike is stretch therapy. Stretch therapy involves a series of assisted stretches that are designed to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and increase range of motion. Stretch therapy can be beneficial for athletes of all levels, as it helps to promote recovery, prevent injury, and improve overall performance.

StretchSPOT is a leading provider of stretch therapy and myofascial release, with 2 locations in South Bay LA, in Torrance and Hermosa Beach. Our experienced therapists work with clients to create customized stretch programs that target specific areas of the body and address individual needs. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, looking to improve your performance, or just want to feel better in your body, StretchSPOT can help.

How Does Stretch Therapy Work, and How Can it Benefit Athletes?

During a stretch therapy session, the therapist will guide you through a series of stretches that are tailored to your specific needs. The stretches are designed to target specific muscle groups and help release tension and improve flexibility. Unlike static stretching, which involves holding a stretch for a period of time, stretch therapy involves a series of dynamic, flowing movements that help to increase blood flow and promote relaxation.

The benefits of stretch therapy are numerous. For one, it can help to reduce muscle soreness and stiffness, which can be especially beneficial after a tough workout or competition. Stretch therapy can also improve flexibility and range of motion, which can lead to better overall performance and reduce the risk of injury. In addition, stretch therapy can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, which can have a positive impact on mental health.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, athletic recovery is a crucial component of any fitness routine, whether you’re a weekend warrior, a young athlete, or a professional athlete. Recovery helps to prevent injury, improve performance, and promote overall health and wellness. Pro athletes take recovery to the next level, with access to a range of tools and techniques that help them perform at their best. For athletes of all levels, stretch therapy from StretchSPOT can be a valuable tool in promoting recovery and improving performance. So next time you’re feeling sore, stiff, or stressed, consider giving stretch therapy a try!

Man lying on his side on a foam roller under his hip

5 Benefits of Foam Rolling

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If you have spent time in a gym or physical therapy clinic, you have undoubtedly encountered a foam roller. You might have even used one without fully understanding its many benefits.

This article will outline the many benefits of foam rolling to help you ease muscle tension and soreness from home.

What is a Foam Roller?

Before diving into the benefits of foam rolling, let’s talk more about what a foam roller is and how it works.

A foam roller is, quite simply, a tool made out of foam that you can roll along your body to ease muscle tension along trigger points. This is often called myofascial release, referring to the release of muscles and their surrounding tissues.

It targets specific muscle groups to stimulate blood flow, loosen knots, and restore mobility. Best of all, a foam roller is completely portable. You can use it at home or take it to the office, the gym, or on vacation. This portability ensures you always have an easy way to soothe your muscles after a long day of travel, a challenging workout, or sitting at a desk.

5 Benefits of Using a Foam Roller

Here are five reasons to add foam rolling to your daily routine.

1. Reduce muscle soreness and aches

The primary reason people use a foam roller is to ease aching muscles. The foam roller acts as a type of massager by getting knots out of muscles and helping ease their pain.

Note that foam rolling may not feel great at the time – in fact, it can be somewhat painful, especially in tight muscle areas. However, after foam rolling, you should start feeling better.

2. Provide back pain relief

Note that people experiencing extreme back pain should not try foam rolling. If you have concerns about whether or not you should engage in physical activity, we encourage you to consult your healthcare provider. Incorrect foam rolling could cause further damage or lead to additional injury.

However, some people find relief from back pain by using a foam roller. A foam roller can improve spinal alignment, release tension, and improve posture.

Healthline offers several examples of foam rolling exercises that can be used to ease minor back aches and pains.

3. Increase range of motion

Your mobility may be restricted because of muscle tightness. By using a foam roller to loosen muscles throughout your body, you may be able to increase your range of motion. This can make exercising and performing daily tasks easier and more manageable.

Research shows that incorporating foam rolling into a warmup can maximize its benefits and set you up for a great workout.

4. Reduce inflammation and maximize recovery

Foam rolling instantly increases circulation in the areas that are worked. This increase in blood flow can help you get more oxygen to areas of your body that need it most. In addition, the added oxygen can help bring fresh nutrients to sore spots to remove inflammatory waste products, thereby maximizing recovery.

5. Improve sleep quality

Sleeping with pain or muscle soreness can be a challenge. Foam rolling for a few minutes before bed can help loosen tight muscles and increase blood flow, making it easier to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Feeling Tight? StretchSPOT Can Help!

A foam roller is an excellent at-home tool for relieving muscle tension and tightness. But sometimes, you need a bit more support.

At StretchSPOT, we help everyone from elite athletes to those looking to improve their mobility around the house feel better through personalized stretching. Book your appointment today to get started.

Exercise class with focus on woman holding a kettlebell in a squat positionn

5 Ways to Maximize Muscle Recovery After A Tough Workout

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The steps you take after a workout impact your body as the moves you do during a workout.

No matter your fitness goals, you need to focus on muscle recovery after every workout.

Why You Should Care About Muscle Recovery

Many people make the mistake of continually working out, thinking that resting is a sign of weakness or failure.

The truth is that rest and recovery are crucial for building stronger muscles. Your body needs time to recharge in between workouts.

If you push yourself too hard, you’ll end up moving backward. It will take longer to reach your goals, and you may even end up with a severe injury that impedes your ability to work out at all.

Fortunately, you don’t have to completely revamp your fitness routine to get the muscle recovery your body needs. Adding a few extra steps into your daily routine will go a long way to improving your overall fitness.

5 Ways to Speed Up Muscle Recovery

Incorporating these five things into your workout routine will help you recover faster and get stronger.

1. Stretch after your workout

It’s tempting to hit the showers immediately after you get done working out. However, just a few minutes of stretching will decrease the muscle tension built up during your workout. As a result, you will feel less sore the next day. You’ll also reduce your risk of injury.

Ideally, you’ll spend 10 minutes stretching post-workout. But even just spending a minute or two stretching the primary muscles you worked on will go a long way toward improving your recovery time.

2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

This cannot be emphasized enough. Your muscles need water to recover and perform. You’ll have cramps, fatigue, and lower physical performance without it. Because you lose water when you sweat, drinking water during and after your workout is essential. Your body also needs electrolytes, which you can replenish through sports drinks, chocolate milk, or fruit.

3. Fuel with protein

Protein helps rebuild your muscles. Follow a challenging workout with a protein-filled snack, such as a protein bar, protein shake, eggs, fish, Greek yogurt, or chicken. Aim for at least 20 grams (the equivalent of three eggs) with each meal to aid muscle recovery.

4. Get enough sleep

Don’t skimp on sleep the night before or after a tough workout. Your body needs sleep to do the vital work of repairing muscles. Aim for at least seven to nine hours of sleep. Avoid alcohol, which can negatively impact your sleep quality.

5. Embrace the art of active rest

Your body needs time in between workouts to repair. So, don’t try to do back-to-back strength training workouts. Instead, schedule active rest days in between your hard workouts. Go for a walk, do some gentle yoga, ride your bike, or get in the pool. These types of activities will help stimulate the muscle recovery process without adding more strain to your recovering muscles.

Do Your Muscles Need Some Extra TLC? StretchSPOT Can Help!

Following the advice listed above can improve your overall recovery and prevent a lot of soreness.

But sometimes, that’s not enough to cut it, especially when you have a chronic condition or are training at a higher level of intensity.

StretchSPOT can help you get the deep stretch you need to stay active and enjoy your daily life, whether you need extra support as you train or are just looking for ways to increase your overall mobility.

Give yourself the gift of more flexibility and mobility. Book an appointment at StretchSPOT today!

Woman in a beanie blowing her nose and screwing up her face

10 Natural Ways to Get Over Your Cold

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When you have a cold, you might feel any combination of symptoms—headache, fatigue, dry cough, congestion, muscle aches.

Most colds peak at around 2–3 days, but it could take as long as 14 days for your symptoms to disappear completely.

There isn’t a cure for a cold; however, there are several things you can do to ease your symptoms, so you start to feel more like yourself.

1. Take it seriously

It’s important to treat a cold instead of trying to push through it. In some cases, an untreated cold can lead to more severe problems, like pneumonia or a lung infection. Call your doctor if you feel chest pain, start vomiting, develop a fever, or have other symptoms that don’t feel like a cold.

2. Rest

Don’t try to power through your cold. Taking a break so your body can rest is the best way to fight your symptoms. Even a few hours of extra rest can make you feel better.

3. Do gentle movements

If you have some energy and want to exercise, stick with something gentle, like stretching. Avoid heavy lifting or intense cardio workouts. Stretching during the day will circulate blood and oxygen through your body. Doing some gentle stretches before bed can help you sleep better.

4. Stay hydrated

Keeping your body hydrated is always essential. When you have a cold, getting enough liquids can help loosen congestion so you can breathe easier. Stick to water, herbal teas, and broths. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can both interfere with sleep and make you dehydrated.

5. Get a humidifier or vaporizer

Adding some moisture to the air can help break up congestion. Use a humidifier or a cold air vaporizer. Make sure to change the water daily to avoid mold buildup.

6. Have some chicken soup

This magical meal can ease inflammation throughout your body, helping you feel better. Plus, it’s easy on your stomach and can get nutrients to you in a soothing cup.

7. Have some vitamin C

Overall, researchers seem to agree that, while vitamin C can’t prevent a cold, it can ease symptoms quickly. You can take a supplement or eat citrus fruits, broccoli, or bell peppers as soon as you feel a cold coming on.

8. Gargle with warm salt water

If you have a sore throat, make a saltwater mixture by dissolving a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Gargle with it for around 30 seconds at a time. This can help your sore throat feel better and reduce swelling.

9. Elevate your head when you sleep

You know you need extra sleep when you have a cold, but it can be difficult when you’re congested. Elevating your head with an extra pillow can relieve your nasal passages.

10. Take a bath

A nice warm bath with Epsom salt can help ease your aches and pains. Also, taking a bath at night can relax your body and help you sleep better.

At StretchSPOT, we care about your total body wellness. Whether you are an avid athlete or just want to improve your flexibility and balance, our pros are here to help you feel better with customized treatment plans. Book an appointment to get started.

basketball player on a doctor's table looking at a female doctor

3 Fast Ways to Heal from a Sports Injury

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Whether you’re a weekend warrior, an elite athlete, or somewhere in the middle, getting a sports injury isn’t fun.

A sports injury can mean cutting your season abruptly short or missing out on precious training time for competitive athletes. For recreational athletes, getting injured can interfere with your health goals and cause problems in your personal life, especially if your injury makes it difficult to do routine tasks.

No matter the injury or your athletic status, you want to heal from it fast. We have some ideas that can help you get there.

1. Follow the RICE method

Use the RICE method for soft tissue injuries, which include pulling a muscle or spraining a ligament.

Rest: Resist the urge to “muscle through” an injury. Give your body the break it needs.

Ice: Ice can reduce swelling and inflammation. Apply an ice pack to the injured area for about 20 minutes at a time. Repeat this process 4 – 8 times a day. Don’t forget to wrap the ice pack in a towel to avoid burning your skin.

Compression: Within 48 hours of getting injured, apply compression to limit swelling.

Elevation: Keep the injured limb elevated to reduce swelling. For lower limb injuries, your ankle should be above your hip. For upper limb injuries, you can elevate the area using a sling or pillow.

2. Get a professional opinion

It’s always a good idea to see your doctor when you get injured. Your doctor can tell you what, exactly, you injured and provide a treatment plan for your recovery, which might include physical therapy. Make sure to follow it carefully to ensure that you don’t re-injure yourself or become active too soon.

While a muscle strain will heal itself with time, other injuries are not so easy to manage on your own. If you think you could have broken a bone or suffered another serious injury, don’t hesitate to visit urgent care or the emergency room.

3. Eat a healthy diet

You can’t work out, so now’s the time to order takeout and binge on cookies, right? Wrong. (Unfortunately.)

When your body is injured, it needs all the nutrients it can get to heal. Many sports injuries are caused by inflammation, so you want to eat anti-inflammatory foods.

Make sure you get plenty of lean protein, vitamin C, Omega-3 fatty acids, and calcium. Fueling with fiber-rich foods can keep you feeling full and promote good digestion, which is critical if your injury limits your mobility.

Prevent Future Injuries at StretchSPOT

Once you’re back in the game, it’s important to take steps to avoid future injuries. Stretching before and after workouts can be an excellent way to stay healthy and avoid injuring your muscles.

At StretchSpot, we work with anyone in the South Bay who wants to live an active lifestyle. Our specialists can develop a customized stretching program to keep you limber and healthy while preventing future injuries. Schedule an appointment today to feel the difference quality stretching can make in your overall health.

man stretccing out his legs on grass

6 Hidden Benefits of Stretching

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You might think stretching is only for athletes, but the truth is that everyone, regardless of activity level, can benefit from it. Learning the best ways to stretch for your body can improve your focus, reduce your risk of injury, and even help your digestive system function more efficiently.

It doesn’t matter how flexible (or not) you are right now. Stretching every day will help you move more efficiently and feel better inside and out. Start small, then build on your stretching regimen as you become more flexible and confident.

6 Ways Stretching Benefits Your Health

We hope these six hidden benefits of stretching will encourage you to take up stretching as part of your daily routine.

1. Improved focus and concentration

Pausing your work for a mid-day stretch could be just what you need to refocus your energy on your work. Check out our recommendations for easy stretches you can perform from your desk any time you need a quick break.

2. Relieve aches after a workout

Stretching loosens your muscles, which is critical after a long or grueling workout. Loosening your muscles can help them feel less sore and reduce your risk of injury. By promoting circulation, stretching after a workout can also release toxins and lactic acid build-up that could otherwise leave you feeling achy later.

3. Reduce stress and anxiety

Stretching after a long day can reduce stress and ease tension in your mind and body. Approach stretching with a mindful approach, taking the time to notice how your muscles feel before and after you stretch. Even spending just a few minutes a day stretching can help you free your mind of negative thoughts as you lengthen your muscles.

4. Improve flexibility

Being flexible is about more than being able to do the splits. When your muscles are flexible, your body is better able to perform activities without getting injured or sore. This can include everything from tackling a challenging workout to doing household chores. Flexibility also improves muscle efficiency and endurance, which can help you move more without getting tired.

5. Improve digestion

That uncomfortable feeling you get after eating a large meal can be eased with specific stretches that target your digestive system. Gentle twists can increase blood flow to your bowels and even reduce inflammation, helping those with chronic gastrointestinal issues feel better throughout the day.

6. Ease headaches

Instead of reaching for pain killers the next time you feel a headache coming on, try stretching. Sitting in one position for too long or feeling stressed can cause you to unconsciously contract the muscles in your neck, leading to tension headaches. Spending a few minutes doing gentle neck stretches can loosen these muscles and help your headache go away naturally.

Conclusion

Stretching doesn’t always get the positive attention it deserves. Many people ignore it as part of their workout or daily routine, thinking that a few minutes of stretching can’t make a big difference. The truth is that any amount of stretching throughout the day can help you feel better mentally and physically.

See how stretching can benefit your lifestyle by booking an appointment at StretchSPOT. Our experts can help you understand the best stretches for your body based on your specific needs.

Massage Therapy vs Assisted Stretching: Which is More Effective?

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Strong muscles are crucial for good health and superior performance. With regular muscle treatment, you can increase blood flow, relax joints and tendons, and improve circulation.

Massage therapy and assisted stretching are two of the best ways to provide muscle relief. In order to respond better to your body’s needs and wants, it will help to understand the methods and benefits surrounding each treatment.

How Massage Therapy Works

Massage is an umbrella term for pressing, rubbing, and manipulating muscles and ligaments to promote relaxation and recovery. It is a popular form of passive stretching wherein an individual stays put while a therapist applies external pressure on the part of the body that is being stretched. While a general massage therapy will involve work on the entire body, sessions can be customized to focus on specific or problematic areas only.

Massage may range from gentle stroking to deep pressure techniques. It’s best performed immediately after an intense workout or strenuous activity as it can help relieve pulls or strains, and leave a calming effect on the body. Massage can also provide much needed relaxation in the midst of a busy work week.

That being said, too much massage therapy can lead to injuries and overstretching. Wrong strokes, excessive pressure application, and skin abrasions due to friction may put the body at greater risk. Injuries stemming from massage techniques require immediate, and often expensive, medical treatment. In addition, a massage may leave you feeling drowsy and fatigued after due to the intense muscle manipulation that took place.

The Benefits of Assisted Stretching

Like massage, assisted stretching makes use of an external force to soothe tightness and keep muscles engaged. Assisted stretching may share several similarities with massage, but its main purpose is to enhance mobility.

During a typical session, a therapist will move and stretch out your body until muscles are elongated and the fascia is stretched out. Doing so will help remedy any distortions and reduce painful movement.

Muscle coordination and flexibility can become imbalanced as you age. You will also notice that your range of motion or your ability to move joints comfortably reduces as time goes by. All these issues may lead to mobility limitation and structural instability in the long run. With regular assisted stretching, you can boost flexibility and put less stress on your muscles, resulting to better performance and comfort.

The Secret to Pain-Free Mobility

While there’s no second guessing the healing potential of massage, assisted stretching optimizes recovery in ways massage therapy cannot.

Most individuals rely on massage for instant recovery. Assisted stretch takes it one step further by offering long-term solutions to rehabilitation. The goal of assisted stretch is to help people move freely to the best of their ability and live a pain-free life without undergoing surgery. As mentioned earlier, too much recovery can trigger injuries and soreness.  With assisted stretching, you can look forward to lower stress levels and greater strength and endurance.

At StretchSPOT, our professional therapists combine elements of Active Isolated Stretching, myofascial release and PNF techniques to help each client reach their health and fitness goals. Book an appointment today and experience the vast benefits of assisted stretching.