Did you go away for the Easter Holidays?
Long flights, road trips, or even just a few days of lounging on holiday can leave your body feeling stiff, tight, and achy. Back, neck, and hips are often the first to protest, and jumping straight back into exercise can sometimes make things worse.
Luckily, there are simple exercises you can do almost anywhere to help your body reset and feel ready to move again.
- Book Opener Stretch
One of our favourites is the book opener stretch. It’s simple but targets multiple areas at once: your spine, chest, and neck.
- Lie on your side.
- Start with your arms stacked in front of you, then slowly rotate your top arm open, turning your head to follow it.
- Your bottom half stays facing one direction while your upper half rotates to the other.
- Hold for a few breaths, then switch sides.
This stretch helps open up your chest, improve spinal mobility, and release tension in the neck, perfect after hours of sitting on planes, in cars, or on holiday chairs.
- Hip Flexor Stretch
Long periods of sitting can leave your hips feeling tight. Step one foot forward into a gentle lunge, keeping your back knee on the floor. Push your hips slightly forward while keeping your chest tall. Hold for 20–30 seconds per side to release tight hip flexors.
- Seated Spinal Twist
Even if you’re still at work or on a long commute home, a seated spinal twist can help loosen your back. Sit tall, place your right hand on the back of your chair, and gently twist your torso to the right. Hold for a few breaths, then switch sides.
- Shoulder Rolls and Neck Movements
Simple shoulder rolls, chin tucks, and gentle neck rotations can release tension that builds from travel, reading, or staring at screens. They’re quick, subtle, and surprisingly effective.
- Glute Activation or Mini Walks
After sitting for long periods, your glutes and legs may feel sluggish. Stand up, squeeze your glutes a few times, or take a short 5–10 minute walk. Getting blood flowing helps wake up muscles and reduce stiffness.
Travel doesn’t have to leave your body feeling like the tin man. With a few targeted stretches and gentle movements, you can reset, loosen tight areas, and return to your regular routine feeling strong and mobile.
📅 Book a session today if you need some more specific advice!