I think we all, at some point have experienced DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) a day or two after having done an intense exercise routine. Maybe we spent too long at our desks or driving around in a car and, as a result, experience muscle stiffness and pain. Upon stretching the sore muscle, a sigh of relief escapes us. So it begs the question, why does stretching feel so darn good?
A stretch feels good because during the process the CNS (central nervous system) receives a "feel good" response from your muscles and sends the response to your brain. Stretching can also enhance the proprioceptors (neuro-muscular receptors that register stimuli) of one's own body position and movement, making us more aware of our body and the coordination of it. It can also aid in the elimination of a knot or a trigger point.
A knot or a trigger point is a sustained contraction which prevents adequate amounts of nutrients and oxygen from traveling through the muscle. It can be caused by: a chronically irritated muscle spindle, inactivity, orthopedic procedures, and chronic dysfunctions of the musculoskeletal system. A slow stretch can increase oxygen and metabolism in the muscle spindle, allowing the muscle to relax, and decrease the severity of a trigger point.
A stretch feels good because during the process the CNS (central nervous system) receives a "feel good" response from your muscles and sends the response to your brain. Stretching can also enhance the proprioceptors (neuro-muscular receptors that register stimuli) of one's own body position and movement, making us more aware of our body and the coordination of it. It can also aid in the elimination of a knot or a trigger point.
A knot or a trigger point is a sustained contraction which prevents adequate amounts of nutrients and oxygen from traveling through the muscle. It can be caused by: a chronically irritated muscle spindle, inactivity, orthopedic procedures, and chronic dysfunctions of the musculoskeletal system. A slow stretch can increase oxygen and metabolism in the muscle spindle, allowing the muscle to relax, and decrease the severity of a trigger point.
Key components to a good stretch:
- Warm up the muscles, do a light walk/jog for few minutes first.
- Hold for 30 seconds.
- Make sure the stretch is pain free to avoid over stretching.
- Relax and breathe.
- Stretch both sides.
- Stretch before and after activity.
Not only can stretching improve your flexiblity and athlectic performance; but it can also: increase blood flow, increase oxygen and nutrients (which can help keep bones stronger and healthier), stretching aids in the ability to hold proper posture, and may even keep you feeling young!
I find that yoga is a great tool for my mind and body. If you're interested in a whole mind/ body connection through yoga; there is a wonderful instructor, Spira, at yoga-well-being in Grandview Heights. I highly recommend her. She is truly amazing!
More information about Spira at yoga-well-being can be found here:
http://yoga-well-being.net/
http://yoga-well-being.net/
References:
Elemental.com
livestrong.com
myoclinic
eorthopod
nakesscientists
wellsphere
spark people
conwaymedical center
healthy crush
proform
