Neck Stretch (side flexor)

February 10, 2021 By:Henk Damiaans

Neck Stretch

Increase your flexibility through your neck and shoulders

To test your neck side flexion, Stand in front of a mirror and slowly tip your head to the side, bringing your ear to your shoulder.
Imagine pouring water out of your ear onto your shoulder
With a good flexibilty you should be able to tilt your head 25 to 40 degrees

How to do it

Simple Neck Stretch for Pain Relief

Neck pain can be a real hassle, especially after long hours of sitting or working at a desk. Thankfully, incorporating a simple neck stretch into your daily routine can provide significant relief. Here’s a quick and effective neck stretch that you can do anywhere, whether at home or in the office.

How to Perform the Neck Stretch

Sit Upright: Start by sitting with a good upright posture. Ensure your back is straight and your shoulders are relaxed.
Anchor Your Hand: Grab the chair with one hand to create gentle tension in your shoulder and neck. This will be your anchor hand.
Position Opposite Hand: Place your opposite hand over your head and onto your ear.
Stretch: Gently move your head away from your anchored hand until you feel a slight stretch in your neck. This stretch should be comfortable, not painful.
Breathe and Press: Take a deep breath in. As you exhale, gently press your head into your hand while simultaneously pressing your hand against your head. The head will not actually move during this step, but you will feel a gentle resistance.
Relax and Repeat: Relax after a few seconds and then repeat the stretch on the other side.

Benefits of Neck Stretching

Incorporating this neck stretch into your routine can help in several ways:

Relieves Tension: Regular stretching can reduce muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.
Improves Flexibility: This stretch helps maintain and improve the flexibility of the neck muscles.
Enhances Posture: A good posture, combined with stretching, can prevent neck and shoulder pain caused by prolonged sitting or poor ergonomics.

Tips for Best Results

Consistency is Key: Perform this stretch daily for the best results.
Listen to Your Body: Never force the stretch. If you feel any pain, stop immediately.
Combine with Other Exercises: Incorporating other stretches and exercises can provide comprehensive relief and improve overall neck health.

Adding this simple neck stretch to your daily routine can make a big difference in how your neck feels. Give it a try, and enjoy the relief it brings!