Feeling Stiff? 5 Stretches For Neck You Should be Doing Everyday

Soniya
Try these stretches for neck to help alleviate the pain. (Image via Unsplash / BR)
Try these stretches for neck to help alleviate the pain. (Image via Unsplash / BR)

Stiffness in your neck? There are many stretches for neck that can help. Neck pain is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can result from poor posture and long hours on the computer, or it can be a symptom of a more serious health issue.

Stretching is an essential component of any fitness routine, and it has numerous health benefits. It can help to reduce stress and tension in the body, which can improve mood and promote relaxation, among other things.

Here are some simple and effective stretches for neck that you can perform daily to alleviate your pain and discomfort.


Strengthening Exercises For Neck To Try

Here are five stretches for neck that you should be doing every day:

1) Chin Tucks

Chin tucks are one of the most effective stretches for the neck that you can perform anywhere, anytime.

To do this exercise:

  • Begin by sitting upright with your shoulders relaxed and your chin level to the ground.
  • Slowly tuck your chin towards your chest while keeping your head level.
  • You will feel a stretch in the back of your neck.
  • Hold this position for 5-10 seconds and then release.
  • Repeat this stretch 5-10 times.
You can perform this exercise anywhere. (Image via Unsplash / Akemy Mory)
You can perform this exercise anywhere. (Image via Unsplash / Akemy Mory)

2) Neck Rolls

Neck rolls are another great stretch for the neck that can be performed while sitting or standing.

To perform this move:

  • Begin by relaxing your shoulders and gently rolling your head to the right, bringing your ear towards your shoulder.
  • Hold this position for 5-10 seconds, then slowly roll your head back to the center and repeat the same stretch on the other side.
  • Do 5-10 repetitions on each side.

Great for relieving upper back tension. (Image via Unsplash / Chalo Garcia)
Great for relieving upper back tension. (Image via Unsplash / Chalo Garcia)

3) Shoulder Blade Squeeze

The shoulder blade squeeze stretch is great for relieving upper back and neck tension.

To do this exercise:

  • Begin by sitting upright with your shoulders relaxed.
  • Slowly squeeze your shoulder blades together, keeping your arms relaxed by your side.
  • Hold this position for 5-10 seconds, then release.
  • Repeat this stretch 5-10 times.

4) Doorway Stretch

The neck and upper back benefit greatly from the doorway stretch.

To do this stretch:

  • Stand in a doorway and place your hands on the door frame at shoulder height.
  • Step forward with one foot, keeping your hands on the door frame.
  • Gently lean forward until you feel a stretch in your chest and the front of your shoulders.
  • Hold this position for 10-15 seconds, then step back and repeat on the other side.
  • Do 5-10 repetitions on each side.

5) Ear-to-Shoulder Stretch

The ear-to-shoulder stretch is an effective stretch for the neck that can be performed while sitting or standing.

To perform this stretch:

  • Begin by sitting upright with your shoulders relaxed.
  • Slowly tilt your head to the right, bringing your ear towards your shoulder.
  • Hold this position for 10-15 seconds, then slowly release and repeat on the other side.
  • Do 5-10 repetitions on each side.
Effective stretch for tech neck. (Image via Unsplash / Christopher Campbell)
Effective stretch for tech neck. (Image via Unsplash / Christopher Campbell)

Why Stretches For Neck Are Important?

1) Improves flexibility and range of motion

Performing stretches for neck is a great way to improve flexibility and range of motion. When we stretch, we are lengthening the muscles and increasing their elasticity, which allows us to move our neck more freely and with less pain or stiffness.

Stretches for the neck can help to loosen up tight muscles, reduce muscle tension, and improve overall mobility.


2) Reduces neck pain and discomfort

One of the most significant benefits of stretches for neck is their ability to reduce neck pain and discomfort. Neck pain is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, such as poor posture, stress, and injury.

However, regular stretching can help to alleviate neck pain by increasing blood flow to the affected area, reducing muscle tension, and promoting relaxation.

Improves your posture and balance. (Image via Unsplash / Geert Pieters)
Improves your posture and balance. (Image via Unsplash / Geert Pieters)

3) Promotes good posture

Good posture is crucial for maintaining a healthy spine and reducing the risk of neck pain and injury. Stretches for neck can help promote good posture by strengthening the muscles that support the neck and upper back.

When our muscles are strong and flexible, we are better able to maintain proper alignment and reduce the risk of strain or injury.


4) Reduces stress and tension

Stress and tension can cause muscle tension and pain in the neck and shoulders. Stretches for the neck can help to reduce stress and tension by promoting relaxation, releasing endorphins, and improving blood flow.

Stretching can help to reduce stress and promote better sleep after a long day.

Promotes better sleep. (Image via Unsplash / Luemen Rutkowski)
Promotes better sleep. (Image via Unsplash / Luemen Rutkowski)

5) Prevents injury

These stretches for neck can also help to prevent injury by improving the flexibility and strength of the neck muscles. When our muscles are flexible and strong, they are better able to withstand sudden movements or impacts, reducing the risk of injury.

Regular stretching can also help to prevent repetitive strain injuries that can occur due to prolonged computer use or other sedentary activities.


In conclusion, incorporating these simple stretches for neck into your daily routine can help to alleviate neck pain and discomfort. Remember to perform these stretches slowly and gently, and always listen to your body. If you experience any pain or discomfort during these stretches, stop immediately and seek medical advice.