Given that many of us spend much of the day sitting at a desk or perhaps travelling in a car, train, plane for hours to then sit in a long meeting with clients, it is little wonder why tight hips are a common problem.
Although the feeling of tightness in the hips is different for everyone, I think we can all agree that it is pretty unpleasant.
When I was a desk worker, it was the outside of my hips and even into my lower back that felt the worst. My clients have shared similar experiences but have also mentioned tight hamstrings (back of thighs), painful quadriceps (front of thighs), and discomfort in the hip flexors.
Sitting for long periods can shorten and deactivate the hip flexors which overtime can cause them to become weak as well as tight.
Aside from long periods of sitting, stress can also have an effect on the hips. The muscles in the hips, particularly the psoas muscles (as shown in the image to the right), tighten in response to emotional stress.
When we perceive danger, our body's natural reaction is fight, flight or freeze which results in the tightening/contraction of the muscles particularly in the hips.
If any muscle in the body tightens for an extended period this can lead to symptoms such as muscle pain which can hinder mobility/range of movement if not addressed.
It is important, therefore, to not only take care of our bodies in general through regular movement and good nutrition, but to also manage our stress levels.
In the video above I share some of my go to floor based hip mobility exercises which can help alleviate tension and tightness. These exercises can be done first thing in the morning, after a long period of sitting or before you go to bed. Whenever you decide to do these exercises, aim to do them daily to get the most benefit.
Hope you find this useful. : )
Have a wonderful weekend.
Amalia
DISCLAIMER: The information shared in this video is offered as an opinion. You should always consult a medical professional before trying any new diet or exercise program.
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