Yoga coach Anadi Sharma ( certified in India) said that without a remedy, this condition can lead to chronic pain or more serious problems, requiring expensive physical therapy.
Muscle stiffness is mainly caused by lack of movement, reduced blood circulation and muscle tension, poor posture, repetitive stress, dehydration and fatigue.
However, just a 10-minute break and performing a few simple stretches at the desk will help your body maintain flexibility and no pain.
Here are 5 easy stretching moves you can do on the spot:
1. Neck straightening
Lean your head to one side and bring your ear toward your shoulders. Hold for 10 seconds, then switch sides. This move helps reduce tension in the neck, which is prone to fatigue when sitting for a long time.
2. Shoulder rotation
rotate your shoulders in a circle, moving slowly forward and backwards. This helps relieve stress and improve posture, making you feel more comfortable.
3. Spinal rotation when sitting
Sit up straight, rotate your upper body to one side and place one hand on the opposite knee (turning to the right, place your left hand on the right knee and vice versa). Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. This move helps reduce tension in the lower back and improve spinal flexibility.
4. Stretch your arms and pull your fingers
Stretch your arms out in front of you with your palms facing up, gently stretching out your fingers when intertwined. This move helps reduce tension on the wrists and fingers, especially effective for those who have to press a button for a long time.
5. Stretch hamstrings while sitting
Stretch one leg forward (at a 90-degree angle to the body), in an upside-down position and hold for 20 seconds. Change your legs and repeat. This is a move that helps relax hamstrings, reducing stress caused by sitting for a long time.
Some other effective tips
If you are attending a long session, sit up straight, clasp your arms behind your back and hold for 15 seconds to maintain a straight position, reducing muscle tension. Don't forget to provide enough water for your body throughout the meeting to stay alert and avoid fatigue.
Just spend a few minutes stretching each hour, you will feel more flexible and comfortable, helping to protect muscle and joint health when working long hours.
