TryGOLD- Free

The Power of stretching
Prevention US|July 2023
Just a few minutes a day can ease and prevent pain. Here's how to work its magic.
- KATHRYN ROSS-NASH
The Power of stretching

MOVEMENT CAN CHANGE LIVES. I SEE IT EVERY DAY. When I was young, I didn't understand pain. Each morning, I hit the ground running, moving easily through life. But at age 25, I injured my spine while dancing. My perspective on my body and my relationship with it changed overnight.

I learned to adapt and apply my fitness knowledge to my daily life and, later, to the lives of my clients; as a Pilates instructor for decades, I understand when clients ask, "What can I do to lessen my pain? How can I feel better?" Pain robs us of the joy in life-but stretching gives us a return to life, freedom, and joyful experiences. It can help ease aches and prevent new pains. Daily stretching increases blood flow, which delivers more oxygen and nutrients to joints and muscles, and this helps improve flexibility, range of motion, and strength-all things that add up to less stiffness and pain. In short, stretching helps your body function at its best.

I don't break down stretches into individual body parts, but rather into broader movements. The body is a network: Our muscles, bones, tendons, and fascia are all connected. Pain in one area can affect another body part, but this also means you get more bang for your buck when you stretch mindfully. I also think it's crucial to connect stretching with functional activities how to properly reach for an item on a high shelf, for example. If a stretch doesn't help you move with less pain in the real world, what good is it?

These sample moves, from my new Prevention book Stretch Away Pain, show you how to incorporate stretching into your daily life. Now, let's move and heal! 

BEFORE YOU START

Keep these best practices in mind to get the most from your stretch session.

BREATHE: Begin with a few minutes of deep breathing. This signals your body to relax and serves as a familiar point from which to start your routine.

This story is from the July 2023 edition of Prevention US.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the July 2023 edition of Prevention US.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM PREVENTION USView All
I Know When My Kidneys Are Going to Fail
Prevention US

I Know When My Kidneys Are Going to Fail

A physical therapist was shocked to learn that for her, these crucial organs had an expiration date. With proactive care, she intends to extend it.

time-read
5 mins  |
March 2025
Cholesterol Confusion
Prevention US

Cholesterol Confusion

Social media is abuzz with bewildering (and even worrisome) theories about cholesterol and the medications used to lower it. We sort out what’s truth, what’s error, and what’s conspiracy to help you keep your heart healthy and strong.

time-read
8 mins  |
March 2025
THE DOCTOR IS IN Curious About Taking Testosterone?
Prevention US

THE DOCTOR IS IN Curious About Taking Testosterone?

You may be hearing about women using this hormone— here's what we know (and what we don't).

time-read
3 mins  |
March 2025
GUT-FRIENDLY GOODIES
Prevention US

GUT-FRIENDLY GOODIES

For a healthy microbiome, these delicious foods deliver.

time-read
2 mins  |
March 2025
5 MYTHS ABOUT FRIDGE FOOD SAFETY
Prevention US

5 MYTHS ABOUT FRIDGE FOOD SAFETY

Nothing chills table talk like a bite of spoiled food or past-its-prime produce. Keep your knowledge fresh by tossing these myths.

time-read
3 mins  |
March 2025
WHAT'S UP WITH ...MUSCLE FLUTTERS
Prevention US

WHAT'S UP WITH ...MUSCLE FLUTTERS

Experts explain why you sometimes get little twitches under your skin.

time-read
1 min  |
March 2025
Love That Natural Look
Prevention US

Love That Natural Look

A beauty pro's guide to no-makeup makeup

time-read
2 mins  |
March 2025
TEST YOUR SEASONAL ALLERGY SMARTS
Prevention US

TEST YOUR SEASONAL ALLERGY SMARTS

CIRCLE THE BEST OPTΙΟΝ.

time-read
2 mins  |
March 2025
FEEL BETTER, LONGER
Prevention US

FEEL BETTER, LONGER

You are far more than the sum of your body parts, but keeping those parts working properly is key to staying active and pain-free well into older age.Give them a quick checkup and the TLC they need. Here's how.

time-read
7 mins  |
March 2025
COZY CHOCO-LOVE!
Prevention US

COZY CHOCO-LOVE!

This craveable treat, when eaten the right way, really does help your health.

time-read
3 mins  |
February 2025

We use cookies to provide and improve our services. By using our site, you consent to cookies. Learn more