Healthy Computing Tip # 444: Upper Body Stretch

This is another in our ongoing reminders to perform large movement exercises when working at the computer.  You know the reason why you're a dynamic creature so smile and feel alive when you do an upper body stretch.

How to do an Upper Body Stretch:

This is done best in flat shoes or in stocking feet, standing with your feet shoulder width apart.

Stand up and push away from your chair.  Breathe diaphragmatically for one or two breaths, allowing relaxation to flow through your body with each exhalation.  Reach for the ceiling with your right arm, keeping your left relaxed at your side, and gently bend to your left, while maintaining a straight arm. While breathing, hold the stretch for 30 seconds. Relax and then alternate, reaching with your left and bending to your right. Keep your hips stable while performing this stretch.  Repeat 3-5 times on each side.

Do this or another large movement breaks every 20 to 30 minutes.