Insights from LA Mattress Stores
Hello, sleep enthusiasts! At LA Mattress Stores, we believe that taking care of your body is essential for achieving a restful night's sleep. Incorporating stretches into your bedtime and morning routines can help promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, and improve overall flexibility. Let's explore some of the best stretches to do before bed and when you wake up to enhance your sleep and start your day off right.
Before Bed Stretches:
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Forward Fold: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and slowly bend forward from your hips, reaching towards your toes. Allow your upper body to relax and hang loosely. This stretch helps release tension in the back, hamstrings, and calves, promoting a sense of relaxation.
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Child's Pose: Start on your hands and knees, then sit back on your heels while extending your arms forward. Allow your forehead to rest on the floor or a pillow. This stretch gently stretches the lower back, hips, and shoulders, promoting a calm and restful state.
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Figure Four Stretch: Lie on your back and cross your right ankle over your left knee, forming a figure four shape. Gently pull your left knee towards your chest until you feel a stretch in your right hip and glute area. Hold for a few seconds, then switch sides. This stretch helps release tension in the hips and glutes, providing relief from tight muscles.
When You Wake Up Stretches:
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Cat-Cow Stretch: Start on your hands and knees, with your hands aligned under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Arch your back upwards, tucking your chin into your chest (cat pose). Then, lower your belly towards the floor, lifting your head and chest (cow pose). Repeat this gentle flowing movement for several rounds to awaken your spine and improve flexibility.
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Standing Side Stretch: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and interlace your fingers above your head, palms facing upwards. Lean to one side, reaching upwards and elongating your body. Feel the stretch along the side of your torso. Hold for a few seconds, then repeat on the other side. This stretch helps stretch the sides of your body, improving overall flexibility.
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Hamstring Stretch: Sit on the edge of your bed with your legs extended in front of you. Slowly lean forward, reaching towards your toes while keeping your back straight. Feel the stretch in the back of your legs (hamstrings). Hold the stretch for a few seconds, then release. This stretch helps release tension in the hamstrings and improves flexibility.
Incorporating these stretches into your bedtime and morning routines can help relax your body, release muscle tension, and prepare your mind for restful sleep or a productive day ahead.
Remember, listen to your body and stretch within your comfort zone. If you have any specific health concerns or injuries, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified fitness instructor before starting any new stretching routine.
At LA Mattress Stores, we care about your well-being and the quality of your sleep. We offer a range of sleep products, including comfortable mattresses and pillows, to support your restorative sleep experience.
Sleep well, stretch mindfully, and embrace the benefits of a well-stretched body with LA Mattress Stores by your side!
