Stretching: The Alchemy of Movement
Be honest…
Do you stretch before or after your workout?
Stretching is probably the most overlooked aspect in our wellness routine.
But stretching holds a profound power to transform not just the body, but also the mind and spirit.
Stretching is not yoga, but it is still a sacred practice.
It is a form of movement alchemy that supports the synergy between our physical body, our mindset and Spirit.
If we look at the metaphysics of stretching, we will see it relates to our self-awareness and ability to release emotion.
Have you heard of ‘The Body Keeps the Score’?
Our body stores emotional and psychological stress, trauma and painful memories.
Stretching, especially when done mindfully, helps to release trapped emotions:
Hips and Lower Back: These areas are often linked to stress, anxiety, and unresolved emotions, particularly for women. Hip openers and lower back stretches can facilitate the release of emotional tension stored in these regions, promoting emotional healing and freedom.
Neck and Shoulders: These areas can hold tension related to responsibility, fear, or overthinking. Stretching these muscles can help release mental and emotional burdens, making room for peace and clarity.
Stretching can be a powerful act of self-care, helping us tune into our body with compassion.
And stretching our body is an acknowledgment of our body’s need for rest, recovery, and care.
It’s a reminder that we can "stretch" our capacity for love, patience, and tenderness toward ourselves.
Let’s dive into dynamic and static stretching…what they are, how and when to use them.
Dynamic Stretching
Think about dynamic stretching as activating the flow of energy in our body.
Dynamic stretching should be done before our workouts.
And it involves active, controlled movements that prepare our body for activity.
Think leg swings, arm circles, or walking lunges.
These types of large movements warm up our muscles, improve range of motion, and stimulate blood flow.
Dynamic stretching is not just about preparation.
It is a practice of invitation.
By actively engaging our body with this type of stretching, we are signaling to our muscles and fascia: I am ready to move, to transform, to grow.
Static Stretching
Think of static stretching as cultivating stillness and restoring our body.
Static stretching should be done after a workout.
It involves holding a stretch for a sustained period, usually 15-60 seconds.
Think pulling and holding your arm across your chest, seated forward fold or a standing quad stretch.
This form of stretching allows the muscles to relax and lengthen while promoting stillness and reflection.
From a wellness perspective, static stretching is a practice of release.
It is where we pause, listen, and honor the limits of our body.
Static stretching is allowing it to recover and rejuvenate.
Now, let’s briefly chat about fascia…the magic that holds us together!
If you are unfamiliar, fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds and interlinks every muscle, organ, and bone in our body.
It really is a magical web that holds our body together, providing structure and facilitates movement.
Healthy fascia is hydrated, supple, and elastic.
It allows us to move freely and with less pain.
Unhealthy fascia, however, is tight, knotted and restricted.
It leads to feeling stiffness, discomfort, and even chronic pain.
Emerging studies show that fascia plays a key role in our body's conductivity of energy.
Fascia is an intricate network and energy grid.
It facilitates the flow of bioelectric signals throughout our body.
This means that the health of our fascia not only supports internal energy flow.
But may also radiate a similar energy into the surrounding biosphere, potentially attracting like energy.
Both dynamic and static stretching nourish and heal our fascia.
Try incorporating practices like foam rolling or fascia release therapy alongside stretching.
These treatments amplify the benefits of stretching by breaking up adhesions.
And not only does it feel great, it gets us moving again without pain.
This is an invitation to lean into the power of muscle and soft tissue care.
When we prioritize stretching, we’re not just improving flexibility,
We are improving how we navigate moving through the world.
Healthy muscles and soft tissues…
Improve posture and balance, creating a strong foundation for daily life.
Prevent injuries by preparing and restoring our body for movement.
Enhance circulation, bringing vital nutrients and oxygen to your muscles and fascia.
Whether you exercise or not, a practice of stretching daily will improve your overall health.
In the Morning: Put on an energizing song and start your day with dynamic stretches to energize your body. Swing, reach, and lunge with intention, imagining your body preparing for the flow of the day.
In the evening: Put on a calming song and end your day with static stretches to calm your muscles and fascia. Hold each stretch gently, breathing deeply to honor your body’s effort.
Daily Ritual: Dedicate 10 minutes (about 3 songs) each day to a stretching practice. View it as a moment of connection, healing, and preparation for your highest self.
Stretching is a declaration of self-love and self-awareness.
It is one way we communicate with our body and show it support.
Stretching is truly magical and acts like medicine for our body.
It is the bridge between stillness and movement, between effort and ease.
Stretching is an alchemical process that transforms tightness into freedom, stagnation into flow, and disconnection into harmony.
It is more than a warm-up or cool-down.
It can be a daily act of self-care and empowerment.
A reminder that our body is precious and needs to be handled gently.
It is an invitation to appreciate having flexibility in our life and body.
Stretch…your body will thank you, and your Spirit will shine brighter.
If you are interested in working with a qualified practitioner, please see our director of trusted muscle and tissue care practitioners.
Welcome to The Body Ministry Blog. A sanctuary for women seeking to reconnect with their bodies and align with their purpose.
In this final month of December we explore the 9th Pillar of Wellness - Movement, elevating our consciousness, spirituality, and physical well-being.
Learn more at OriAra.com and subscribe to our blog, The Body Ministry
With love,