The festive season often involves long hours of preparation, from decorating homes to cooking elaborate meals . These activities can lead to poor posture , muscle strain and discomfort. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rajeshwari Panda, Head of Dietetics Department at Medicover Hospital in Kharghar Navi Mumbai, recommended that a combination of proper nutrition and targeted exercises can help alleviate these aches and pains.
She elaborated - Understanding the problem Poor posture: Prolonged sitting or standing in awkward positions can lead to back pain, neck stiffness, and shoulder discomfort. Muscle strain: Repetitive movements, such as chopping vegetables or hanging decorations, can strain muscles and tendons. Exercises to relieve aches and pains 1.
Stretching: Neck Stretches: Gently tilt your head to the side, then forward and backward. Shoulder Stretches: Reach your arms overhead and interlace your fingers. Gently pull your arms upward.
Back Stretches: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and bend forward, reaching for your toes. Hip Flexor Stretches: Lunge forward and bend your front knee while keeping your back heel on the ground. 2.
Strengthening exercises: Plank: Hold a plank position for as long as you can to strengthen your core. Wall Push-Ups: Stand facing a wall, place your hands on the wall at shoulder height, and do push-ups. Squats: Perform squats to strengthen your legs and core.
Dumbbell Rows: Use dumbbells to perform rows to strengthen your back mu.