Top 10 Reasons to Start Stretching More In Your 30’s for Better Health
Entering your mid 30’s is a roller coaster, isn’t it? You’re climbing the job ladder, you’re finally feeling more comfortable with yourself, and things may even be falling into place.
Except your body may be completely freaking the fuck out. You have more aches, pain in areas that you never thought possible, it’s harder to work out, and you can no longer touch your toes on the dance floor like you did in your early 20’s (where did the years go?).
Since entering my señora era, I have discovered stretching. Not just 5 minute intervals right before working out – I mean full on 15 to 30 minute sessions where you really make an effort to stretch areas that are particularly problematic to you. It’s been an insane discovery! And I’ve needed it the most lately, as we took a whole year to write our upcoming book, Radical Señora Era (picture me sitting uncomfortably on the couch with my laptop)
I started out by taking an online yoga class with a physical therapy modality, and then tried Stretchlab for a few months. I have improved my señora aches, helped me have better workouts and recovery, and even given me better sleep.
All you really need are 15 minutes a day; and you can add it on to when you’re watching TV or doing things around the house. Just add it to your daily señora routine.
Stretching is so beneficial, especially for women over age 35, as it addresses some of the unique challenges that come with aging.
What are these?
- You’ll be flexible AF: It helps maintain and enhance flexibility, which you’ll naturally start to lose with age. For women over 35, flexibility alongside gaining muscle is sooooo freaking important in maintaining mobility and reducing the risk of injuries during daily activities, and they’ll especially help you in your abuelita years. Just ask Camila from Peloton and her abuelita.
- You’ll just flow: Regular stretching promotes better blood flow, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues and improve overall health, particularly important as women age and your circulation goes haywire.
- It’s a Destressor: Stretching can alleviate stress and tension in the muscles, which is particularly beneficial for women managing the stressors of midlife, such as career demands, family responsibilities, and hormonal changes.
- It will help you stand up straight: Stretching can help correct muscle imbalances and strengthen the muscles that support good posture, reducing the likelihood of back pain, which can become more common as women age.
- It will help you move! As joint flexibility decreases with age, stretching helps maintain a full range of motion, which is essential for performing daily activities comfortably and preventing stiffness.
- Less pain more gain: Regular stretching can alleviate chronic pain, particularly in the lower back, hips, and shoulders—areas where women over 35 often experience discomfort due to lifestyle factors and aging.
- Enhanced Muscle Tone: Stretching helps maintain muscle tone and elasticity, which can decline with age.
- Improved Balance: Stretching exercises can enhance balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls, which become more of a concern as women age and bone density decreases.
- Support for Hormonal Changes: Stretching can ease some of the physical symptoms associated with hormonal changes, such as muscle tension and joint pain, that women often experience during perimenopause and menopause.
- Better Sleep Quality: Stretching, especially in the evening, can help relax the body and mind, leading to improved sleep quality. This is particularly beneficial for women over 35, who may experience sleep disturbances due to stress or hormonal fluctuations.
Regular stretching can be a simple yet effective way for us to maintain our physical health, manage stress, and enhance their overall well-being as they age.
