Stretch and Surrender: #11 Towel Stretch

Benefits: Releases tension in the upper back and shoulders. Stretches the rotator cuff muscles.

METHOD: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold a towel in your left hand. Bring your left arm up, elbow bent, so that your left hand is behind the top of your head and the towel drops behind your back. Grasp the end of the towel with your right hand.

Gently pull down with your right hand so that your left arm moves down behind your head. Don't yank the towel or overstretch your right arm. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.

Reverse direction by reaching up toward the ceiling with your left arm, allowing your right hand to be pulled up between the shoulder blades, or wherever you can reach comfortably. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds. Release the towel from your left hand. Repeat both rotations on the other side. Do 3 to 5 times on each side.

Tips: This can be done from a seated position as well. It's a great stretch to do at your desk. On the golf course, use a golf club instead of a towel.