Got 5 Minutes? Ease Your Back With a Simple Stretch

Side Stretch

Benefit: This stretch addresses the muscles of the torso side wall. As we go about our daily activities, we often use one side of the body more than the other, which can create an imbalance in the muscles of the side body. Stretching the side wall allows for more space not only in the sides of the torso, but also in the low back.

This can be done sitting at your desk chair or while standing. Either way, make sure your feet are planted solidly on the ground and you spine is upright with a slight natural curve in your lower back. As you inhale, raise your hands above your head and interlace your fingers. On your exhalation, slowly lean to one side, keeping your shoulders and hips facing the wall in front of you. With your next inhalation, come back up to center and exhale to the opposite side. You can repeat this a couple of times to each side coordinating with your breath. As always, try to take slow, steady, and deep breaths. Only go as far to the side as is comfortable – stretching should not be painful.