By Micheline Silva, LLMSW
Academic Advisor for the WSU Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies

Does your body creak every time you stand up? You might blame it on age, but in reality, it could stem from a lack of mobility and stretching.

As we continue to navigate the new normal following the height of the pandemic, it is important for us to continue to adjust to our virtual workspaces. It is easy to fall into the habit of not moving as much, especially working from home, where everything is at arm's reach.

Setting reminders to get up and move can go a long way when it comes to your overall health. Try some of the poses shown in the images on this page!

6 reasons to stretch daily

1. Stretching helps with joint mobility.
2. Stretching increases blood flow and muscle flexibility.
3. Stretching reduces damage caused by chronic inflammation.
4. Stretching reduces body aches such as lower back pain.
5. Stretching decreases the risk of injuries.
6. Stretching improves your posture.

Stretching do's and don'ts

Don't stretch without warming up your muscles first.

Do warm up before stretching by going on a light walk.

Don't stretch once and expect instant results.

Do be consistent to get optimal results.

Don't bounce; it can tear muscle tissue.

Do stretch in smooth motions.

Resources

The importance of stretching

Focus on flexibility

Top 10 benefits of stretching

The health benefits of stretching every day

The best desk stretches for warding off work-from-home aches and pains (illustrated below)

It's easy to get started with CAPS!

WSU Applebaum offers dedicated Counseling and Psychological Services support to students on a group or individual basis. WSU Applebaum students can reach out directly at 313-577-3243 or PatriciaDixon@wayne.edu. If you need help after hours or on the weekend, call CAPS at 313-577-9982. You can also visit caps.wayne.edu and complete the initial consultation form, making sure to note that you are an EACPHS student.

---

An anchor in urban health care

The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels - from undergraduates to veteran faculty members - translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to more than 25,000 students.