‘Do not ignore your body’s signals’: how to really look after your neck
Mini breaks and micro-stretches could help strengthen your neck and reduce pain and stress, say experts
TL;DR
- Take 'micro breaks' every 30-45 minutes to stand up, take deep breaths, roll shoulders, and gently stretch the neck and chest.
- Correct posture every half hour by elongating the neck and setting shoulder blades apart, incorporating short walks.
- Vary tasks regularly, especially if working at a desk, to avoid prolonged static positions.
- Adjust devices to eye level by using laptop risers or phone stands to reduce neck strain.
- Perform gentle neck stretches and mobility exercises a few times a day, avoiding forceful manipulation.
- Engage in regular physical activity like walking, taking stairs, or cycling to improve musculoskeletal health.
- Manage stress and sleep quality, as tension is often carried in the neck, and maintain proper sleep posture.
- Be mindful of unconscious muscle tensing, particularly in the shoulders and jaw, and consciously relax them.