I hope that you are taking the time to tune into your body on occasion throughout the day. Are you asking what your body needs in the moment and noticing any areas of tension? A good stretch is a simple and highly effective way to release tension and energize yourself. Why wait until your body is stressed? Developing the habit of stretching frequently throughout the day can make a big difference in how you feel.

You can easily get into the habit of stretching throughout the day as a way of tuning into your body and releasing stress.

Stretch yourself right now!

Good!

Now take a deep, full breath, and stretch again in a different way than you did the first time.

Great!

Stretching feels good.

Stretching before golf? It helps release muscle tension almost immediately, resulting in an overall sense of relaxation. Stretching increases circulation as well as improves range of motion. Don't make jerky, quick, or bouncing movements. Ease into stretches in a smooth, relaxed way and hold the posture while internally releasing the muscles. If you feel any pain, stop. Breathe consciously while stretching and imagine that you are breathing into the parts of the body being stretched.

• Driving your car? Stretch before you get behind the wheel. Stretch as you drive. Take a deep breath and stretch your neck, your shoulders, your face. Adjust the position of your back frequently. You can do the isometric exercises below, while at a stop light. On long distance drives, stop every hour or so for a stretch break.

• Office work? Try isometric stretches as you sit at your desk. These exercises are tightening (contractions) of a specific muscle or group of muscles. Inhale, tighten the muscles in your arm, form a fist. Feel the tension mount from your fingers all the way up to your shoulders. Hold for a few seconds, then release completely. These exercises can be done with shoulders, back, legs, and the whole body. They can be done so subtly that nobody notices what you're doing.

• Use everyday activities as a way of stretching. Instead of mindlessly reaching for that box on the top shelf, imagine that you are doing a stretching exercise. Take a breath. Move smoothly. Hold the maximum stretch for a few moments. While waiting for the kettle to boil, reach for the sky, stretch down to the floor; rotate your hips, roll your shoulders. You can be creative and have fun.