Appropriate stretching is crucial for Ariella to keep her muscles happy and to recover quickly. After a strenuous workout, her routine is all about relaxing and being more flexible.
Ariella, a fitness enthusiast and flexibility instructor, adds, “Stretching helps me reboot and feel rejuvenated.” In the video below, she demonstrates her favorite stretches for total body relaxation.
1. Stretch for Cow Cats
Beginning on all fours, transition between the cow and cat positions. Bend over at the waist and lift your head in an arched cat posture. Ariella explains that this particular movement helps to alleviate back stiffness by warming up the spine. Breathe deeply as you move.
2. Forward fold
Step up onto your toes by bringing your knees to meet your feet and bending forward at the hips. Relax your neck and shoulders while you roll your hamstrings and calves into the stretch. They should not push it, Ariella says. Gravity will take care of the rest.
3. Butterfly Stretch from Seated Position
Gently bring your knees close to the floor as you sit with your foot soles touching. Internal thighs and hips are elongated with this stretch. The ideal way to relax and unwind, according to Ariella, is to “cool down.”
4. Sliding Twist
As you lie on your back, bring your knees up to your chest and twist them slightly to keep your shoulders from moving. Keep holding and proceed to the opposite side. “This stretch feels amazing for the lower back,” Ariella says with a smile.
If you want to be more flexible and less likely to experience pain after exercising, including these stretches in your routine. Recovery is equally important as the activity, Ariella stresses. Your body will be grateful if you are kind with it.
