If you’re like most human beings, you probably spend a fair amount of time in front of a computer, tablet, or cell phone sitting, reading, texting, typing, or holding a phone up to your ear. Our workplaces and classrooms have gone digital. Even now, you are on your digital device reading this! So let me ask you a question…

Do you have neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, stiff legs, headaches, or have you even gained a few extra pounds around the mid-line? I’m guessing that many of you answered, “Yes!” C’mon, we all know what’s contributing to this pain!

My neck and low back SCREAM at me every day. If you as an adult are feeling this way, I’d imagine your kiddos, who are diligently working on their digital devices, feel the same. Have you ever asked your students/children how their bodies feel after being at school? If you haven’t, I encourage you to start doing so and pay attention to the effects our digi-world is having on all of our bodies.

As a Shurley English Digital Assistant teacher, I make it a point to ask my student to pause their lesson and take a few moments to STRETCH! NO, the Teacher’s Manual doesn’t tell me to do so. So, WHY do I add this to my lessons?

· Our bodies were designed to move, and it simply FEELS GOOD!

· Stretching benefits your brain as much as your muscles.

· Studies show that stretching can help your memory and help you think more clearly.

Physical Therapist, Suzanne Martin, says, “Stretching affects not only our muscle system, but also our neurological system which operates the brain.…When you stretch, you lengthen some areas while relaxing others. The brain in turn regulates automatic functions like heart rate and blood pressure.” What an invaluable tool to teach our youth!

How To:

Take a few deep breaths through your nose.
Scan your body to see where you feel tightness.
Target the tight muscle group(s), use a safe stretch, and breathe to help release the tightness. (Remember to hold each stretch for 30 seconds.)
Make this a part of your daily routine.

Personally, my daily stretching and breathing practice positively affects all areas of my life. When you open up to more flexibility in your teaching style, you open the door to greater learning opportunities.

WORK. BREATHE. STRETCH. REPEAT.