5 Best Neck Stretches to Do at Your Desk
Over the course of a long day, neck muscles are among the hardest-working in your body.
Considering your head weighs approximately 10 pounds – about the same as a bowling ball – the neck has a hefty task keeping your gaze fixed upon a computer screen for hours on end. Naturally, that can lead to fatigue and soreness.
If you’ve adopted our 10 Best Office Stretches and Office Exercises to Do at Your Desk and 5 Best Desk Yoga Stretches, the following list of stiff neck stretches will be the perfect complement to your daily routine.
As always, make sure to consult your doctor before beginning any exercise regimen, perform each move slowly and with control, start gradually, and avoid pushing yourself too hard. If you ever feel excessive pain or discomfort, cease the exercise immediately.
Stretches for Neck Pain
IMPORTANT TIP: When performing the following stretches, maintain a straight spine and keep your torso and shoulders as still as possible. Strive to only move your head.
1. Ear to Shoulder
Slowly let your head fall sideways, bringing your ear toward your shoulder until you feel a stretch in the opposite side of your neck. Hold for 5 seconds and then slowly raise your head back up. Complete 5 sets on each side.
2. Side to Side
Slowly turn your head to one side until you feel a stretch in the sides of your neck. Hold for 5 seconds and then slowly turn your head until you’re facing the front again. Complete 5 sets for both the left and the right.
3. Eyes Toward the Ceiling
Slowly drop your head backward until you feel a stretch in the front of your neck. Hold for 5 seconds and then slowly raise back up. Complete 5 sets.
4. Chin to Chest
Slowly drop your head forward until your chin touches your chest or you feel a stretch in the back of your neck. Hold for 5 seconds and then slowly raise back up. Complete 5 sets.
5. Chin to Spine
Keeping your head straight and your gaze forward, slowly draw your chin backward. Your chin should not drop down or raise up, only travel backward. Hold for 5 seconds and then slowly return to a normal posture. Complete 5 sets.
We hope this set of neck stretches provides some relief!
