12/16/2024
The holiday season is meant to be a joyful time, but it can also bring stress with its whirlwind of activities, family gatherings, and travel. Physical therapy can play a surprising role in managing that stress by helping you relax through movement and targeted exercises.
1. Release Tension with Stretching
Stress often causes physical tension, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Simple stretches like shoulder shrugs, neck rolls, and seated hamstring stretches can release this tension. Your physical therapist can guide you on proper form to avoid injury while stretching.
2. Practice Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing exercises are highly effective in calming the nervous system. Your physical therapist can show you techniques like diaphragmatic breathing, which helps lower stress hormones and promotes relaxation.
3. Use Movement to Boost Mood
Regular physical activity releases endorphins, which naturally combat stress. Even just 20-30 minutes of walking, stretching, or a light workout can make a difference in how you feel. If you find it hard to make time, integrate movement into your day—park further from the store, take stairs instead of elevators, or stretch while watching TV.
4. Manual Therapy for Relaxation
If the holiday stress has left you feeling tense, manual therapy techniques such as massage or joint mobilization, provided by a physical therapist, can help release muscle tension and promote relaxation. These hands-on treatments can reduce stress-related pain and help you unwind.
Managing Holiday Stress with Movement
By incorporating relaxation techniques into your physical therapy routine, you can better manage holiday stress and take care of both your body and mind.
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