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Staring at laptop screens and phones and slumping into poor posture at your desks can all contribute to tension in the neck. Fortunately, a few stretches can go a long way in soothing your neck pain. Hold each of these stretches, recommended by fitness expert Shameen Akthar, for five breaths and make sure to observe your breath.
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To do the side neck stretch, sit comfortably on a chair and place your left hand on your thighs. Now lift your right hand and place it on the left side of your head. Tilt your head towards the right shoulder. Hold and repeat on the other side. This stretch will help release tension from the side of your neck and shoulders.
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The hand clasp stretch can be done either sitting or standing. Interlock your hands behind your head and bring your elbows forward. Lower your chin towards your chest and hold for a few breaths. This stretch is excellent to soothe the back of your neck.
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For the upper neck stretch, lift both your arms and fold your right elbows to touch the top of your left arm. Hold for a few breaths and repeat on the left side. The stretch will soothe and lengthen both the sides of your neck, upper back, shoulders and chest.
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To perform cow face arms, kneel down and sit. Lift your right arm towards the ceiling and bend your right elbow. Let your right hand fall between your shoulder blades behind your back. Then take your left hand behind your back and clasp your hands. Stay here for a few breaths and repeat on the other side. This will release any tension in your upper neck and back.
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To do standing forward fold with shoulder opener, stand straight and clasp your hands behind your back. Bend forward from your hips and try to touch your forehead to the knees. Lift your arms up while keeping your hands clasped. This forward fold gives an excellent stretch to your arms, neck and shoulders.
