Travel can be a pain in the neck, quite literally. Being confined to the small space of an airplane seat or car seat often results in a variety of aches and pains, ranging from a stiff neck to sore back. To help alleviate some of that soreness, Cleveland Clinic suggests you try some simple chair yoga moves. The multi-specialty academic medical center tapped the expertise of a certified yoga therapist, who recommended a series of stretches you can do while sitting on a plane or during a long car ride.
Here are five poses to help alleviate travel aches and pains:
- Seated Cat-Cow: This pose helps to soften and lubricate your spine, creating space between your vertebrae and increasing circulation.
- Seated Spinal Twist: Spinal twists stretch your torso, ribs and respiratory muscles and even help to massage your internal organs.
- Neck Rolls: These loosen the muscles to help alleviate tension in the shoulders and neck.
- Shoulder Rolls: These loosen your shoulder muscles and release tension.
- Seated Forward Fold: This simple move stretches the lower and upper back. There might not be enough space to bend fully forward on the plane, but this is a great stretch to do while waiting in the terminal before you board the plane.
No matter which move you try, make sure you are breathing properly. Purposeful breathing brings in more oxygen, which can help you feel more awake or calmer thus alleviating some of the stress associated with travel these days. You might find yoga beneficial in your home life as well. It’s good for the mind and body.
Do you have any tricks to keep from cramping up while traveling? Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or Twitter and share your recommendations for pain-free flights and road trips.
