Shaped by FAITH Back Stretches With Jenny Beth Willis

My Shaped by Faith guest Jenny Beth Willis is a singer/song writer and musician. She is an amazingly talented person who was also on American Idol Season 12.

Since Jenny Beth is a musician and singer, she most likely sits or stands in the same position for extended periods of time when practicing. I wanted to give her some simple stretches that would help relieve back and shoulder pain.

Musicians like Jenny Beth or anyone can alleviate shoulder and back pain and avoid injuries by incorporating stretching exercises into their regular routine.

Stretch Tip: Musicians should stretch prior to practicing or performing. Musicians should take breaks frequently to stretch. For example, stretches can be done before moving onto a new technical exercise or piece or after drilling a trouble spot. Pianists tend to hold a lot of tension in the shoulders so these stretches are beneficial to their performance.

These following stretches will help ease shoulder tension, alleviate shoulder pain and loosen up the shoulder muscles.

#1 Shoulder Shrugs are so simple and EASY to do anywhere, anytime of the day!

From a standing or sitting position, tighten your Core and shrug your shoulders, drawing them up towards your ears. Hold your shoulder muscles for five seconds. Relax. Repeat at least two more times.

#2 Chest & Shoulder Stretch is another good stretch to open up the chest muscles and loosen up the shoulders.

Interlock your fingers and place them behind your head. Keep your elbows straight out to the side. Breathe deeply inhale & exhale through your mouth and nose.

Pull your shoulder blades together to produce tension in your upper back and shoulder blades. Hold this position for five to ten seconds. Relax. Repeat three to four times.

#3 Ball Roll Out