I was saving the exercise in today’s video for later this year (something about saving the best for last :D) as this is one of my absolute favorite go-to exercises.
But, as I was reading through different requests and questions that have come in recently, I noticed a theme around neck and shoulder tension/tightness and concern about the upper back, especially when it comes to the side effects of working on a computer.
It just so happens that upper-back-strength work is what I originally planned to send you today.
But, I avoid building strength on top of tightness as much as possible, especially when the neck is involved.
So, before we get into upper-back strength work, let’s kick things off with an amazing neck and shoulder stretch that you can do anywhere.
All you need for this exercise is a few key form points!
I’m curious to hear how this exercise feels for you. (For me, it’s vastly different on my right side than my left.) You can let me know by leaving a comment below.
I love hearing from you!
Saving the best for right now,
Sydney
P.S. If you like understanding the why behind an exercise, or the reasoning behind doing things in a specific order or way, you’ll love the revamped Pilates Tonic Online Membership.
The virtual membership doors will be opening for a short time in October, and I promise to keep you posted as we get closer to the registration opening date!
10 Responses
WOW! I am amazed at how effective this stretch is and how much I felt right away! I am also grateful for the timing and your willingness to throw it out there when it felt right. It was perfect timing for me.
Thank you, Sydney, for all that you offer… I truly appreciate it!
Jo D’Agostino
Thanks so much for your feedback, Jo, and I’m thrilled to know this was helpful at just the right time!
This one is so effective, just did it and feeling so good !
Yes, stretching routine, for computers workers, is a must … i say to my clients, coming for massage, that massage helps a lot, but stretching , is the everything !
Love your videos, Smiles and hugs!
Thanks for sharing, Tania! Love your feedback, and it’s always great to hear from you! xo
Does head position matter? Should we tuck our chin?
Wow, immediate relief! That stretch is amazing! I notice a huge difference right afterwards and it makes me wonder how my neck and shoulders will feel after regular use of this stretch. Thank you so much Sydney!
Great questions, Andrea! Sliding the base of your skull back and up (like in this video), is a wonderful way to add to this exercise. You can also explore dropping or tucking the chin. No matter how slight, each new position will change how the stretch feels and help you find places that could use the attention. Thanks so much for sharing!
Hi Sydney! Great stretch also playing with slight head movements very gently. I’ve also added some eye movements so looking in the opposite direction to your head ie head to left eyes to right! Very effective Feldenkrais addition!
Oooh, nice, love that! What a great addition, Monica. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you very much. I really felt my shoulder and neck after this excercise.
Thanks so much for sharing, Mary!