Stretching, of all the simple things, has been a key tool when used to control things in my daily life. I never thought something so obvious, so easy, could be so powerful. It has literally changed the way I view and react to things. Here's just what it has done for me.
If I stretch first thing in the morning, it starts my day on a good note. I take long, deep breaths and tune into how my body feels that day. I take several breaths to give each body part a good stretch; this allows me to mentally prepare for the day ahead. I can even calm myself down before things occur by reminding myself of little things, like the fact that my kids are simply just that - kids. So, when the first thing I hear that day is "MOM! Hannah hit me!", I can handle it with a clear mind, and am less likely to resort right to yelling; something that is more apt to happen when I jump out of bed and immediately begin rushing around to pack lunches and get ready for the school and work day. That short time spent stretching first thing truly relaxes my body and mind, and prepares me for the chaos of the day.
On mornings when the kids are my alarm, or I am up before the sun to exercise, this little stretching session isn't likely. On these days, I try to use Hannah's nap time and Lyla's school time to focus on myself. A few days a week, I will add in some extra self care by foam rolling and doing some deep tissue work or pressure points with a lacrosse ball. These days are most rewarding because my sore muscles are a reminder of how hard I trained that week, and the relief I feel is the ultimate sign that I cared for myself.
Stretching has even helped me grasp control of my struggle with food. Had I known that this simple practice could have controlled my disorders back when I was controlled by them, I would have been healthier years ago. As I stated before, when I stretch, it allows me to tune into my body. This includes hunger. I find that when I have a stretching session before a meal, I am more mindful of the foods I make and the portions I eat. Stretching makes me feel good about myself the way a good work out does. Just like I am not likely to come home from a great day at the gym and devour a candy bar, I am less likely to under or over eat after a good stretch. This has been a huge help with the downfall of nighttime snacking, which is probably why late evening is my most productive, intuitive time.
Nighttime stretching is amazing. After the girls are in bed and I treat myself to a glass of wine or a snack, I hit the yoga mat and sort out my day. I notice the full feeling I have. I notice any muscle that need a little more attention. I breathe out the bad moments and stretch deeply into them. Similar to meditation, I relax each body part starting with my toes and swirling up to my head. I fall asleep sooner, sleep deeper, and set myself up for yet another day on the right foot.
Feeling good about myself through stretching has brought on other good habits that add to my self-love and happiness journey, such as books over TV, tea over coffee, deep breaths before reacting, and time well spent with others.
All of this from simply stretching. Who knew?
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