by Mya Kagan (whyzz writer) >> more about the author

In the morning, just after you've woken up, do you ever find yourself stretching-stretching-stretching before getting out of bed?? You probably stretch your arms, your back, your legs, your neck, and more!

Believe it or not, the reason why it feels so good to stretch and why your body tells you to do it is that it helps to wake you up! When your muscles have been sitting in more or less the same position while you were asleep, they can get tense or stiff. Stretching helps to get the blood flowing once again so that you feel ready to jump out of bed and start the day!

There are also certain spots in your body called “glands” which are triggered into action as soon as your stretch! Your glands are responsible for releasing important bodily chemicals that help you with everything from fighting off germs to getting little bursts of energy when you need it. So when your body prompts you to stretch, stretch away and help yourself get moving!



Stretching it out!

What kinds of stretches have you learned to do? Stretching is very healthy and is even a great way of building muscle!

Ask a grown-up to help you find a book at the library that can teach you some new stretches! Remember to always be careful not to push yourself or force your body to do anything that isn't comfortable, but learn some new ways of moving which can help you to feel more fit and nimble!