HEALTHY COMPUTING EMAIL TIP 503: SIDE STRETCHES
Sitting immobilized for extended time periods often deactivates our back muscles even if we have a good ergonomic chair. Reduce discomfort when you do SIDE STRETCHES.*
HOW TO DO SIDE STRETCHES
Stand erect with feet a little wider than hip-width apart and knees slightly bent. Place your hands on your hips. Gently tighten your abdominal and buttock muscles. Slowly reach toward the ceiling with your left arm engaging your side muscles and reach over your head. Exhale as you stretch. Feel a gentle stretch on your left side. Hold for a count of 15 and slowly return your hand to your hip. Repeat with your right side, feeling a gentle stretch on your right while you exhale. Repeat 2-3 times on each side.
Do the movements slowly as if the arm and body are moving through molasses. Always keep breathing.
*We thank Bernie Tano and Occupational Health and Safety for healthy back exercises.
