Stretching is invaluable for all ages, but it is particularly essential for the sedentary and middle-aged. As soon as your eyes open, while you are still contemplating facing the day, begin your exercise.
1. Extend one leg downward so that it becomes longer than the other (you must feel it in the calves, ankles, and toes). Do the same with the other leg. Alternate legs, four or five times on each.
2. Now stretch one arm outward until it feels longer than the other; stretch it as far as it will go, until you feel the tension at the shoulders, wrist, fingers. Next stretch the arm upward. Follow the same procedure with the other arm. Alternate arms four or five times.
3. Stretch your neck, moving it from side to side as far as it will go; then arch your back to its utmost. Relax. Do this exercise until you feel you’ve had enough.
4. Get out of bed. Before running to the bathroom or jumping into your clothes, clothes, stretch-stretch any part of the body you feel so inclined. Do not hurry. Your body, now relaxed, might just possibly help relax your mind as well.
