People Swear by 'Somatic Stretching' to Relieve Stress: 'A Huge Emotional Release'

By now, you’re likely well aware that stretching is an integral part of any exercise routine.

But have you ever tried it when you’re feeling tense or anxious?

It’s called somaticstretching, and it may very well be the newstress relieveryou need in your life.

fit brunette woman doing somatic stretching seated twist exercise on yoga mat in bright room with white brick walls and windows

Photo: Shutterstock. Design: Eat This, Not That!

What is somatic stretching?

Somatic stretching, however, focuses on the inside.

It establishes an inner connection to relieve trapped stress and tension.

brunette woman wearing green activewear yoga set doing child’s pose on mat in bright living space

Shutterstock

This form of stretching can uncover areas of your body that you don’t even know are tense.

Stress usually “manifests physically,” Graff shares, and your body requires methods to alleviate it.

the word “stress” written out in word blocks

Shutterstock

Let’s go."

She wrote, “This exercise can cause deep states of relaxation.

Tense your quads as much as you’re free to for four seconds.

Release the tension and take two breaths.