Try This Stretch for Your Shoulders

When rounding and hunching your shoulders from too much computer time becomes an everyday habit, here is a yoga pose that can help.

Photo © Copyright by Laura Brown Photography.

We are in the age of hunching, people. Standard American Posture (SAP) is a thing. Whether it’s hunching over a laptop typing away all day or streaming video on your smartphone, rounded shoulders are everywhere you look. In fact, I’m on a train right now and just about everyone here has rounded shoulders. This constant rounding can lead to shoulder pain, back pain, headaches and more. Really, when do your shoulders get a break?

I’m a yoga teacher and I constantly remind myself to draw my shoulders back and down whether I’m sitting or standing. It’s much easier to keep them hunched.

Where are your shoulders right now? If they’re not stacked above your hips, we have a little work to do.

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Here is one of my favorite yoga poses for shoulders.

Practice It: Garudasana (Eagle Pose) Arms

• Stand or sit (yogi’s choice) with your arms extended in the letter “T.”

• Cross your right arm over your left arm and bend your elbows.

• Place your right hand on your left shoulder and your left hand on your right shoulder.

• Inhale deeply through your nose, part the lips to exhale through your mouth. Stay here for two more breaths and switch sides.

Take a yoga class with me.

Note that this website is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Speak with your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine or wellness plan.