Movement is a necessary act of life. Everything you do involves movement. Just like the hands on a clock, your body has a “tick-tock” rhythm of its own that helps it repair itself and prevent harmful disease. Moreover, you’re an anatomical and neurological phenomenon designed to regenerate through movement.
While most people think movement means excessive working out and pushing the body beyond the point of tolerance, health advocates know that the body also benefits from simply slowing down with exercises that promote flexibility and fluidity throughout the entire body. This can be achieved when doing deep breathing exercises and stretching.
1. Breathing: A simple breathing exercise can take place the moment you wake up. Sit on the edge of the bed, the edge of a chair or on the floor. Close your eyes and breathe in through your nostrils as you fill up your abdomen with air. When it’s full, exhale and breathe out through your nostrils. Repeat the cycle for at least five times
2. Stretching: Stretching is a necessary practice that will increase your flexibility. It can be done anywhere and it should be done before and after any activity where the body is used. For a simple stretch, stand up tall with your knees slightly bent. Next, bend from the waist and stretch your arms toward your feet. If your fingers can reach your toes, that’s great–if not, don’t force the stretch. Instead, dangle your arms and stay in your comfort zone. This same pose can be practiced by sitting on the floor with your legs together. Sit up as straight as possible and reach for your toes. Again, if you can’t reach your toes, rest your hands on your legs. It’s important to remain in your comfort zone to avoid injury. When breathing and stretching, affirm, “I am healing, strengthening and fulfilling my destiny with each breath and step I take.” –kim yokely
Kim Yokely is a well-being lifestyle coach and owner of Kimochi Body N Sole Sanctuary. Yokely teaches a lifestyle program called The New Me Now Experience, to individuals, large groups and corporate entities.
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