Sure, working from home has it perks: sweatpants instead of slacks, no rush-hour traffic and countless trips to your pantry for snacks. But sitting at your makeshift desk can cramp your style and body after a while. Channel your inner Gumby with these quick and easy stretches that can be easily done near or at your desk.
Butterfly
One of the most universal stretches, this gentle pose is done by sitting upright on the floor and bringing your feet together. Let your knees drop by your sides. You can increase the intensity of the stretch by leaning your chest forward or backwards. This works your groin and your hips. “For a lot of people who are sitting all day, those areas tend to get very tight,” says Adam Tilocco, owner of Flow Yoga Studio.
Legs Up The Wall
This conveniently titled pose involves simply laying on your back and putting your legs up against a wall. It’s good for your digestive system, your circulation, your heart and even your throat. The best part? It’s extremely relaxing. “When you stretch and breathe and release tension, you feel better. And so that’s going to help you make better choices and basically be a kinder person to yourself and others,” says Tilocco.
Ragdoll
This cleverly named stretch is done by standing with your feet apart, grabbing the opposite elbows and folding the upper half over your legs. This stretches the entire back of your body, including your Achilles, hamstrings, calves and back. “Your head is upside down and the blood flow rushes to your brain, and it has the ridiculously relaxing effect on your brain, with everybody being so anxious nowadays,” says Tilocco.
