5 Minute Desk Exercises for Stress Relief

Written by: Kristy Kwan, Benefit and Retirement Plan Administrator 

Take a break and relieve some of that repetitive muscle strain with these easy stretches!

To help avoid carpal tunnel syndrome:

• Place your forearm flat on your desk with your hand hanging off the edge. Using your opposite hand, gently push your fingers back (perpendicular to your hand). You should feel a stretching in your tendon, all the way to your elbow. Lessen your pressure if painful. Hold for 8-10 seconds, then release. Repeat with your other hand.
• While making loose fists, rotate each hand in outward circles at the wrist. Make 10 circles. Switch directions for 10 additional circles.

To help neck and shoulder strain:

• Standing with feet a little wider than hips, bend knees slightly and clasp hands (intertwine fingers) behind back. Lean forward and bring hands up over head. Hold position for 5 seconds, then release and come up slowly. This stretch should be done after a quick 2-3 minute walk, to get your blood circulating. Otherwise some dizziness may be felt.
• Sitting upright in a chair with feet flat on the floor, rotate shoulders backwards in circles. Do 10 times, then switch and rotate shoulders forward 10 times.
• Sitting upright in chair with feet flat on the floor, keep shoulders as low as possible. Tilt head gently to the right. Maintain dropped shoulder and head tilt for at least 5 seconds. The stretch should be felt through the side of your neck to your shoulder. Bring head upright. Repeat on opposite side. Next, drop head forward with chin to chest. Interlocking your hands, place them on the back of your head and press down gently. You should feel the stretch through the back of your neck and down through your shoulder blades. Hold at least 5 seconds.
   

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