5 Airplane Stretches
Poses to Promote Your Health While Flying
When we fly we look for ways to keep our blood flowing and release endorphins without disturbing the person in the seat next to us. Here are a few stretches we use to combat the harmful effects of sitting for extended periods of time. They help us relax, keep our blood flowing, and release endorphins. (Also, your mom was right. Sitting up strait, focusing on stacking your spine, and keeping your shoulders back makes it easier for your organs to function. Your lungs use the extra space to expand and get your blood pumping. Thanks, mom!)
Stretches for When You Are In Your Seat
Knee to Chest- sit upright and with your hands around your thigh pull your knee into your chest. Keep pulling your Knee to your chest and do 10 clockwise and 10 counter clockwise circles with your ankle. Return your foot to the floor and repeat with the other leg.
Twist- with a straight spine and your feet flat on the ground, turn your shoulders and head to the left placing both hands on the armrest. Repeat on the right side. For a deeper twist cross your legs.
Hover- engage your core, place your fists on the seat, and push upward with your feet off the ground so that your legs form a 90 angle and you are hovering over your seat. Squeeze your glutes and tighten your abs. Hold for 10 seconds.
Stretches for the Aisle
Forward Bend- stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and bend at the hips with your head tilting down towards your knees. Cross your arms over your head so that your hands are holding your elbows. For a deeper stretch, place your hands under your feet, palms facing up.
Warrior Lunge- take one large step forward, bending at the knee with your hips facing forward, keeping your back leg straight. Roll your shoulders backwards and place your hands behind your back with your palms touching and your fingers pointed upward. Hold the pose for 3 deep breaths then bring your arms beside your hips and step your back leg forward. Repeat, alternating legs.
What stretches feel best for your body in tight quarters?