Total body stretch

When you wake up in the morning, do you stretch your body either before you get up or after you stand up? Sometimes, nothing feels better than stretching out those sleepy muscles! This stretch may be common sense, but most people need a good reminder of how to stretch the whole body correctly and most effectively. Note: Breathing is key.
To do this exercise, follow these steps:

1. Lie on your back with your arms extended over your head.
2. Inhale deeply and stretch your arms and your legs as far as you can in opposite directions
3. As you exhale, release the stretch and relax your whole body.
4. Repeat this exercise three or four times, each time trying to reach and stretch a little farther. Pull your bellybutton toward your spine as you stretch and lengthen.
5. After a few repetitions, try reaching one side at a time. As you inhale, reach and stretch your right side only. Exhale and relax; repeat on your left side.

A few do’s and don’ts for this exercise:

• Do point your toes and lengthen your legs as you reach.
•  Don’t arch your back.
•  Don’t hold your breath.