Here are some simple ways to stretch the muscles in the front of your chest and arms.
But first, are you wondering why you would want to stretch those muscles? It’s because short muscles in the front of your body very often cause pain in the back of your body (and headaches, too.)
It’s “cause and effect.”
Short front muscles are the cause of your pain. The pain in your back, arms, neck and head is almost always caused by short anterior (front) muscles.
Your pain is the symptom. Pain means something is not right. Pain can mean that shortened muscles are pulling you out of balance.
So, back to the stretching…
Gravity will work with you, instead of against you, if you use this simple tool to stretch: a long, thin, foam noodle.
The foam noodle is also called a swim noodle, or a foam roller. Kids use them to play in the water. They are sold in many stores and only cost a few dollars. I’m going to tell you how to make your own roller, too, in case you can’t find one.
This foam noodle is about 5 or 6 feet long, and about 4 or 5″ across (diameter.)
Put it on the floor. Lay on it lengthwise, so the noodle is behind your spine and head. The whole length of your spine (and your head) is supported on the noodle. There will be some “leftover” noodle between your legs and over your head.
And, just lay there.
How simple is that?
While you are on the noodle, let your hands be at your sides. Put the outside edge (baby finger) of your hands on the floor. Better still, place Continue reading “Simple Stretches for Short Muscles in Your Chest and Arms”