On stretching

It all begins with a beginning. A start. Start with some simple stretches. At the desk. While cooking. After you wake up while still in bed. Move your body side to side gently. Feel the tissues moving. Don’t judge. There is no goal here other than to move. That’s the start. It’s infinitely better than no movement. It doesn’t have to be epic or long. Baby steps. Baby steps towards reconnecting with your body. Is it grumpy? Is it happy? Is it singing in joy? Is it crying sad tears? Is it stiff?

Compassion towards our bodies is essential. As we start moving, especially if we haven’t moved much before, it may feel awkward. Moving outside of designated spaces might feel awkward. As in, I only move in a gym, outside of the gym I don’t lift my arms above my head. Be silly! Lift your arms. Shake your butt! Do it!

Kids can be great teachers! They move their bodies naturally. All the time. It bothers parents and teachers. But they must move. And instead of restricting them from moving their bodies, we should move our bodies with them! In schools, in offices, at homes and everywhere else. Except when you are driving. Best to stay pretty still while driving.