My Personal Stretch Routine

Chefs are asked “where do you go out to eat?” and Massage therapists are asked “Who gives you a massage?”. The question underneath is the search to discover the resources that the pros use. Fair enough. For me, stretching is just as much of a mental discipline as anyone else. Professionally, I work on tight muscles but also experience them on my own body. I have to credit a client for motivating me into a non-negotiable stretching routine in 2021 and I’ve never looked back. It’s been one of the best personal habits I’ve developed for my body. My favorite resources change but at the time of this writing it’s a YouTube personality named Mady Morrison. Morrison us known for her yoga but I choose to only focus on the classic stretching movements and skip the poses. Her 30 minute full-body routine has a beautiful chill-lounge soundtrack and the quality of the video is superb. The occasional close up angles allow you to understand her moves and prevent injuries. This video is my staple for daily stretching and I currently use it three to four times a week. There are shorter videos such as ten and fifteen minute if you’re in a time crunch but I recommend you carve out the time for the full thirty. Due to my size and some physical restrictions I modify certain stretches particularly the shoulder stretches on the floor. I opt for using door frames to stretch my shoulders and upper body. Aside from the beautiful filming quality and great music one of my favorite parts of these videos is that Mady doesn’t speak. She also moves ever so slightly “feeling” out the stretch and adjusting, which is always recommended when moving the body. I’m certain over time my tastes will change but as of now this is my stretching go-to. The ease of doing it at home is convenient and the video it has a minimalistic clean and soothing feel to it. I recommend using a knee pad and or a padded floor mat. Some of that pressure on your knees and other joints need a good cushion. As with all body movement videos don’t compare yourself to the person in front of you. Listen to your body and do what you can but be consistent. One week away from stretching feels like starting from scratch! If regular massage therapy is part of your health and or wellness routine throughout the year; then one of the greatest benefits of adding a consistent stretch routine at home is that your massage will “last longer” in between sessions (and stretches are free). That’s always a perk. Happy stretching and enjoy!