I started working on my flexibility at the age of 44. Why? I am not exactly sure. I wanted to achieve some cool yoga asanas that required more flexibility than I had. What I didn’t realize is how much more there was to flexibility than being able to get into certain poses. I had no idea what other benefits I would experience. Today, I will explain how flexibility training has been improving my life, and you may decide to try it!
To start experiencing those flexibility benefits, try my Full-Body Stretching Routine and download my Full-Body-Stretching Routine PDF.
Flexibility Benefits
Before becoming diligent with my flexibility training, I thought stretching was just for before or after workouts. Or maybe a 10-minute session for people with back pain. It turns out that the more I practice my flexibility, the more I want to keep practicing it, and the longer my sessions become. Once you experience the benefits of flexibility training, you want more!
1. Improved Energy
I found this particular flexibility benefit quite surprising. When I started stretching for the splits, I did most of my training in the evening as a time for relaxation. When I included some back flexibility training in my routine, I noticed an increase in my energy level. Right away! As a newbie to yoga, I didn’t know anything about yoga poses and their benefits, so I researched. As it turns out, backbends are energizing postures. You can’t go wrong with back flexibility training whenever you want a quick energy boost.
2. Improved Mood
Another flexibility benefit I have experienced is improved mood. Not that I never feel stressed or grumpy anymore, but I have a stronger sense of calm overall. This is most likely because I ensure to make time for myself every day. At least half an hour each day, I get behind closed doors and work on myself. I make my flexibility training enjoyable and relaxing by listening to music. Over time, this has resulted in a better mood and less stress.
Moreover, yoga improves your mood by elevating a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Try my How to Increase Your Flexibility With Yoga for more yoga-inspired stretches.
3. Increased Confidence
How does flexibility training increase your confidence? I think it is the overall sense of well-being and the ability to remain consistent. As you notice your progress, you feel proud of yourself.
4. Improved Posture
It’s common for everyone to have a slouched posture these days. We spend so much time sitting and looking at our phones! Stretching will help with that! If you have ever been to a chiropractor, you probably have been given back/neck stretching exercises to improve your posture. Yoga, in general, requires more awareness of your body, which in itself will improve your posture. Furthermore, back bending and chest opening flexibility routines will naturally improve your posture.
5. Reduced Aches and Pains
Improving your posture will help reduce aches and pains, but there is more to it. In my thirties, if I stopped going to the chiropractor for a few months, I would start suffering from low back pain. I have been stretching daily for about a year and a half now, and I no longer have back issues. I haven’t been to the chiropractor for about two years! Flexibility training has increased my body awareness and improved alignment throughout my whole body. All this together helps reduce aches and pains. It makes you feel fluid and comfortable in your skin.
Basic Flexibility Exercises
Want some basic flexibility exercises? Don’t forget to check out my Full-Body Stretching Routine and download my Full-Body-Stretching Routine PDF.
I also have a beginner flexibility routine and 5 Yoga Poses for Strength and Flexibility.
Lastly, consider purchasing my Full-Body Flexibility Program to take your flexibility training to the next level. This step-by-step roadmap includes calendars and divides your training into three phases.
