Waking up with a stiff neck is a common problem that many of us face at some point in our lives. Stiff necks can be caused by a number of factors including poor sleeping posture, sudden movements during sleep, or even stress. The discomfort and pain that comes with a stiff neck can be a real hindrance to your day, making it difficult to turn your head or even carry out normal daily activities. While it may take time for the muscles to loosen and heal completely, there are some simple things you can do to help alleviate the pain. Here are a few we find especially helpful.
Try Gentle Stretches
Gentle neck stretches may be the most helpful way to relieve tension in the neck so that you can start to feel better. Start by dropping your chin towards your chest and holding the position for a few seconds. Then, slowly tilt your head back and look up towards the ceiling. Repeat this movement for three to five rounds, breathing deeply.
Apply Heat
Heat is another great way to relieve tension and reduce pain. Place a heat pack on your neck for about 15-20 minutes to soothe any sore spots and help improve blood circulation in the affected area.
Do Some Yoga
Certain yoga poses such as downward-facing dog and cat-cow movements are ideal for stretching and strengthening the muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. Incorporate these poses into your daily routine to relieve any existing stiff neck and to prevent stiffness and pain from coming back.
