Do you need to stretch?
I came home from my recent Mount Snowdon walk with some hard truths learned. I am neither fit nor supple. I decided that I must do something about it. I got out an old book. When I first read it, I thought it was great but had not implemented it. The book is called Built to Move.
The book bgins with an assessment, the ‘Sit and rise test‘. I dutifully took the test. I scored a big fat zero whilst my lovely son encouraged me by also taking it doing it perfectly! There is video evidence of these tests and accompanying embarrassed laughter. I am not brave enough to share them with you (yet).
During the previous fortnight I have been starting my day with 20 minutes of floor sitting, as prescribed by the authors in chapter one of the book. This practice has whizzed me back to primary school. Floor sitting used to be so much easier. My first adult effort, whether cross legged or with my legs out in front caused intense and painful hip stretch. Surprisingly for me, sense prevailed. Instead of going gung ho I have steady followed the exercises. I have not over pushed into pain, but I’ve gently eased through discomfort into moderate stretch. After two weeks, it is getting more comfortable. Movement in my hips is increasing and I feel I am now ready to begin some mobilisations.
I hope you are not utterly bored by hearing about my fitness efforts. I’m keen to increase my flexibility and fitness and plan sharing more here. I’d be excited for anyone who wants to join me in implementing the advice in Built to Move.
As usual my musing has meandered and led me to read and research ‘stretch’ It’s not just our physical bodies that need to stretch to grow. I came across two inspiring quotes:
The passion for stretching yourself and sticking to it, even (or especially) when it's not going well, is the hallmark of the growth mindset. ~ Carol S. Dweck
By stretching yourself beyond your perceived level of confidence, you accelerate your development of competence. ~ Michael J. Gelb
As I alluded to I can be quick to say yes and jump on a challenge. Demonstrated by my taking on Snowden with little preparation. As a physio l should have know better. Our bodies need to be in the right state to get the most out of stretch and avoid injury. Before stretching we need to ensure we are:
Well / healthy
Rested
Nourished
Hydrated
Realistic
are you facing any challenges, physically, mentally or emotionally? If you are, please prepare with self care. You’ll likely still be taken out of your comfort zone but you’ll grow safely. I believe life can be about thriving not just surviving.