5 Post Workout Tips To Heal Your Mind & Body

The end of the workout can shape the whole thing.  It’s the time to assess your performance and praise yourself for the effort.  It sets the tone for the rest of your day, and even your mind set for the next workout. Check out some of my favorite ways to reset your mind and body with post workout stretching.

The last 10 minutes before you head back into the real world are crucial… Here’s how to make them count.

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Stretching is not only necessary for the muscles, but can also be the appropriate time to take account of all that your body just accomplished and build yourself up mentally to prepare for the future.

 

Still, there are times when I’ve left the gym and felt guilty.  I should have done more, or worked out harder. The worst, most defeating feeling is after eating something bad, and when you leave the gym thinking “well that was pointless.”

But how ridiculous?  How unhelpful! No matter what kind of workout I’ve had, I should feel nothing BUT joy.

I think we tend to be too judgmental on ourselves, and expect immediate outcomes.  

The risk is injury.  Injury can mean you’ve failed to cool down appropriately, or simply that you’ve not suitably give yourself the credit you deserve.  That type of mindset can not only hurt physically, but also emotionally.

I’ve experienced both numerous times.  That’s why I wanted to write this blog.  P2Ms, let’s ensure we are are able to conclude a workout with a high spirit and positive energy.

Here are some suggested stretches + thoughts for your post-workout:

Hipflexors & deep breaths:

Kneel with one knee on the ground, and your other leg at a 90-degree angle in front of you.  Keep your back straight and belly tight, so that your knee does not extend beyond your toe. Sink down into the stretch for approximately 30 seconds.

“They tried to bury us, they didn’t know we were seeds.”  ~ Mexican Proverb

Life can be hard. Circumstances and things outside our control can be difficult. When you take the time to breath, remember you’re a seed. You cannot be defeated.

Quads and hamstrings + Reflection:

Lengthen the quad and inner thigh muscles when you get into the “dragon” pose. This will also stretch the hip flexor that extends down to your lower back, allowing the muscles around the hips some relief too. Try not to strain, but let your muscles fall loose with every breath that you exhale.

Mentally, strive for a moment of quiet.

Pause, reflect, and be at peace. There’s a sort of glory in those moments when you focus all thoughts towards being at peace. Close your eyes and reflect on the miraculous performance from your body and even allow yourself to marvel at how incredible the human body can be.

Be still.

Lower back + Perspective:

Bring your knee to your chest, leaving the other leg on the ground. Try to keep your lower back and shoulders flat on the ground too. Pull the knee gently into your body and feel the stretch for 30 seconds. Switch legs.

Find yourself looking up towards the sky?  Let the vastness of the world awe you. (If you’re inside, just imagine a bright blue sky instead!)

With this new perspective, take some time to evaluate your goals. What do you want to achieve? What could you do that day that helps you get one step closer? Pick it and, and then go do it. Because you’re awesome.

Glutes + Gratitude:

Congratulations are in order. You’ve done it. You’ve made the workout a success, and now you’re on the last stretch.

Pull your knee across your chest so that your glutes get a more focused stretch. The stretch focalizes the higher you pull your knee. Do your way to keep bob shoulders flush with the ground and exhale. :30 seconds/side.

Gratitude.

It’s an attitude. Adopting it can lead to better athleticism, and overall happiness. Take the time during the last stretch to make the choice to be grateful.

Thanks for reading my blog, friends. I wish you the best of luck! 

*I’m not a certified anything, and don’t pretend to be qualified to instruct exercises. Just offering my post-workout routine as an example. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!