New year, new you, right?
The reality is that setting overly ambitious goals can be such a jolt to our routine that motivation dissipates within weeks.
This year, consider an on-ramp approach when resolving to be a better, healthier you. Consider starting with something that may surprise you: practitioner-assisted stretching.
My journey with practitioner-assisted stretching began with a dramatic decrease in my physical activity during the height of COVID. I experienced weight gain and significant muscle tightness in my lower back and upper hamstrings. Performing simple household tasks, such as bending down to pick up my dog's water dish, was difficult and painful. I felt like I was 90, and the thought of getting back into shape was daunting! When sharing my struggles with a friend, he suggested I try Stretch Zone. He explained that you go in, lie on the table, and they stretch you.
My reaction? "That's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. I'm not going to pay someone to stretch me—I can stretch myself!" A month later, with very few self-stretches, no workouts, and the pain still present, I decided to give it a try.
What I experienced was astounding. The improvement I felt after just one session was shocking, and within a very short period of time, I was back to moving freely without pain and participating in activities I loved. It was the on-ramp I needed.
Everybody knows we need to stretch, but most of us don't. Stretching is crucial for muscle and joint health. New research shows it can even help lower blood pressure. As we age and physical activity decreases, our bodies don't move as freely as they once did.
Unlike self-stretching, assisted stretching is a personalized routine performed by Stretch Zone method-certified stretch practitioners. Using a patented strapping system and proprietary tables to position, stabilize, and isolate muscles, clients communicate their comfort level. The result is a comfortable, higher-quality stretch that improves range of motion with less pain.
Our practitioners enjoy hearing how our clients benefit from their sessions every day. "I've tried everything to relieve my lower back pain; it's now gone!" or "I've been unable to walk without pain for years until now!" are feedback we hear often. Our clients also share how adding practitioner-assisted stretching in addition to chiropractic and physical therapy treatments has dramatically amplified their desired results.
Whether you are dealing with muscle stiffness, recovering from injury, seeking to improve sports performance, or resolving to be a better, healthier you this year, practitioner-assisted stretching can help!