This is My Go-To Neck and Shoulder Stretch

https://pilatestonic.wistia.com/medias/fq472qbk0e?embedType=async&videoFoam=true&videoWidth=640

I was saving the exercise in today’s video for later this year (something about saving the best for last :D) as this is one of my absolute favorite go-to exercises.

But, as I was reading through different requests and questions that have come in recently, I noticed a theme around neck and shoulder tension/tightness and concern about the upper back, especially when it comes to the side effects of working on a computer. It just so happens that upper-back-strength work is what I originally planned to send you today. But, I avoid building strength on top of tightness as much as possible, especially when the neck is involved. So, before we get into upper-back strength work, let’s kick things off with an amazing neck and shoulder stretch that you can do anywhere. All you need for this exercise is a few key form points! I’m curious to hear how this exercise feels for you. (For me, it’s vastly different on my right side than my left.) You can let me know by leaving a comment below. I love hearing from you! Saving the best for right now, Sydney P.S. If you like understanding the why behind an exercise, or the reasoning behind doing things in a specific order or way, you’ll love the revamped Pilates Tonic Online Membership. The virtual membership doors will be opening for a short time in October, and I promise to keep you posted as we get closer to the registration opening date!

Sydney

I’m here to help you get stronger and more flexible through alignment-based restorative exercise so you can enjoy all the activities you love in life. You can work with me in two convenient ways: digitally through the The Alignment Studio or personally with in-person Restorative Movement Sessions.

10 Responses

Jo DAgostino says:

September 28, 2021 at 2:47 pm

WOW! I am amazed at how effective this stretch is and how much I felt right away! I am also grateful for the timing and your willingness to throw it out there when it felt right. It was perfect timing for me.
Thank you, Sydney, for all that you offer… I truly appreciate it!
Jo D’Agostino
1. Sydney says:
  
  September 28, 2021 at 4:49 pm
  
  Thanks so much for your feedback, Jo, and I’m thrilled to know this was helpful at just the right time!
Tania says:

September 29, 2021 at 3:39 am

This one is so effective, just did it and feeling so good !
Yes, stretching routine, for computers workers, is a must … i say to my clients, coming for massage, that massage helps a lot, but stretching , is the everything !
Love your videos, Smiles and hugs!
1. Sydney says:
  
  September 29, 2021 at 6:31 am
  
  Thanks for sharing, Tania! Love your feedback, and it’s always great to hear from you! xo
Andrea says:

September 29, 2021 at 10:25 am

Does head position matter? Should we tuck our chin?
Wow, immediate relief! That stretch is amazing! I notice a huge difference right afterwards and it makes me wonder how my neck and shoulders will feel after regular use of this stretch. Thank you so much Sydney!
1. Sydney says:
  
  September 29, 2021 at 10:40 am
  
  Great questions, Andrea! Sliding the base of your skull back and up (like in this video), is a wonderful way to add to this exercise. You can also explore dropping or tucking the chin. No matter how slight, each new position will change how the stretch feels and help you find places that could use the attention. Thanks so much for sharing!
Monica says:

September 30, 2021 at 3:04 am

Hi Sydney! Great stretch also playing with slight head movements very gently. I’ve also added some eye movements so looking in the opposite direction to your head ie head to left eyes to right! Very effective Feldenkrais addition!
1. Sydney says:
  
  September 30, 2021 at 6:33 am
  
  Oooh, nice, love that! What a great addition, Monica. Thanks for sharing!
Mary Golpazir says:

October 2, 2021 at 7:40 am

Thank you very much. I really felt my shoulder and neck after this excercise.
1. Sydney says:
  
  October 2, 2021 at 8:03 am
  
  Thanks so much for sharing, Mary!