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Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year
At the end of a long day, it's important to allocate a little time for yourself to relax and rejuvenate. A few simple exercises can help improve your state of mind, make you feel livelier and set you up for whatever comes next!
These simple stretches are also incredibly useful if you are desk-bound during the day or obliged to remain seated for extended periods. Try them next time you are stuck on an aeroplane as well – just try not to nudge your neighbour too much.
HANDS
 Start by stretching all your fingers, hold for a few seconds then relax your hands. Do this a few times.
NECK
 Tip your head forwards slowly so your chin drops onto your chest. Don’t make sudden or jerky motions, but move slowly down and back up to facing front.
SHOULDERS
 Lift your shoulders slowly up towards your ears, hold for a few seconds then drop slowly back down.
LEGS
 Lift your feet then point your toes away. Bring them back so they are reaching upwards. If you can do this while holding you legs up at the knees as well, it gives your stomach muslces a little work out too!
ARMS
 Extend your arms out sideways from your shoulders then make slow, circle movements. Move them a few times clockwise, then anti-clockwise. Do one arm at a time if you find it easier.
After doing these small stretches, take five or ten minutes to relax and rest where you are. You can also follow up with this gentle breathing exercise – breathing deeply and evenly is a great way to calm down.
Breathe in through your nose, thinking about how your lungs are filling up from the bottom to the top, then breathe out slowly through your mouth.
Don't forget that it's important not to overdo any of these exercises if you have any concerns about your health or if you find they cause you any pain. Make sure you visit a health professional if they do.
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