I really should have started stretching earlier in life. I began in earnest over a year ago and at first I pushed too hard and my muscles were not cooperating, saying, “Hey, wait a minute! We don’t stretch just because you decided to start at 78 years old! Take it easy, lady, or we’ll give you a charley horse you’ll never forget!” I got the message and started slowly. I persevered and soon, my muscles started stretching and it felt good. Muscles tighten as we age and stretching helps loosen them up. And it seems to make them friendlier, too. They don’t yell at me any more.
Even now, my stretching should be better but I keep at it. I’m pretty sure if I went to a yoga class, they would ask me to leave, because I was bringing down the vibe in the room, insisting that the class is full. “I only see 5 people here but okay… I guess I’m “na ma stay here.” 🙂
There are so many reasons why stretching is important as we age. Regular stretching:
- Keeps your joints flexible.
- Increases blood flow.
- Helps relieve joint pain and tightness.
- Improves posture
- Makes things easier like bending down, reaching up, even walking.
- Decreases the risk of injuries.
- Relieves stress, bringing calm and relaxation.
How To Stretch:
- Hold the stretch for 30 seconds if you can.
- Don’t bounce.
- If it hurts, you’re pushing too hard. Stretching should not hurt.
How I Stretch:
- I do most of my stretching before bed.
- I also find ways to stretch throughout the day.
- I put things on upper shelves, forcing me to stretch when I reach for them.
- If something falls, it’s an opportunity to try touching my toes to pick it up.
- If I drop something again, this time I squat down to pick it up.
- After sitting for a while, before standing up I lean down and touch the floor to stretch my back.
- I try to hold my stretches for 30 seconds but it’s boring and sometimes I cheat.
- If I get a cramp, my muscles get mad. “What part of 30 seconds did you not understand?!”
- I’m doing the best I can. 🙂