Chest expansion

TENSIONS of the mind are often stored in the back of the neck — the proverbial ‘pain in the neck’ — and lower back. This move helps both these areas.

Stand with feet together and back straight. Interlock hands behind back and gently pull shoulders back, straightening arms.

Inhale and lift arms up behind back. Exhale and bend forwards with back flat and legs straight. Hold for five. The ultimate aim is to put your chin on top of your shin, under the knee.

Inhale, lift head, then slowly return to upright. Gently bend backwards, pulling arms back down under your bottom. Hold for a count of five. Inhale and return to upright.

Repeat sequence twice.