We all have those days that seem ruined the minute we hit snooze (for the third time). One thing after another keeps building up until we are just ready to crawl under the covers with some Netflix and wine to hide until the weekend! On days like this, the last thing we want to do is also the best remedy to our woes … move! When you're done with the hustle and bustle of your day and the thought of squeezing in a workout seems less likely than pigs flying, but these relaxing stretches from the Gymnasticbodies Stretch Courses are like a spigot for tension to ooze out of your body.

Wall Middle Split Hold—the First of 3 Relaxing Stretches

Start with a wall middle split hold. Most of us hold a ton of tension in our hips from long hours of sitting. This stretch may sound intense, but scale it so you are comfortable – we are relaxing here, after all! Lay on your back on your most comfortable floor with your feet up on the wall, scoot your rear so it’s touching the wall, and allow your legs to fall open to a comfortable width. Hold for a minute, breathe deeply and gently come out of the stretch.

Windshield Wipers for Spinal Release

Continuing on your back, move away from the wall, and bend your knees to a 90-degree angle. Keeping both shoulders on the floor and knees together, bring your knees down to the left, then back up to the middle, and down to the right. Hit both sides three times, then hold for 30 seconds on each side for maximum relaxation and spinal relief.

Wipe away stress with movements from GB Foundations!

Cobra to Stretch Your Core

Now, let’s flip to our stomachs to open up the chest and reverse the tightness from our typical hunched postures of the day. Lay flat on your stomach with your hands right by your shoulders. Push up onto your forearms and look up towards the ceiling. As you push up, do your best to keep your lower back relaxed by gently arching. The stretch is most effective when it's felt primarily in your upper and middle back. Stay here for 45 seconds.

Ahhhh! Much better. Just a few minutes of stretching can make a huge difference in your mood and attitude. It’s all about perspective (and some endorphins), and simply just breathing! Letting go of tension feels sooo good and it’s good for you too! So, what’s next? Bubble bath? Movie time? You deserve it! Let us know how you love to unwind after a long day!

GymnasticBodies full body relief means finding sustainable ways to add stretches and movement into your busy routine; the result is an increased quality of life – today and tomorrow.