Stretch vs. Strength

Y’all know me—I love to stretch. There’s something delightful about slowing down, breathing deeply, and feeling my body lengthen. I’ve been known to stretch while waiting in line at the store or use the nearest couch or bed for a modified downward dog when my back or shoulders are feeling tight.

But as I get older, I’m realizing I need to add more strength to my routine, too. It’s all about balance! (See what I did there?)

Strength helps us maintain stability, balance, posture, and confidence. Stretching helps us maintain flexibility and mobility. And the best part? We don’t need weights or fancy equipment to work on either—we can use our own body weight!

We need both: strength to support our bodies and mobility to help us move freely. One without the other can leave us with a gap. That’s why I love yoga and Pilates classes (and, as you may know, I’ve been known to blur the line between the two!).

Together, we can build the mobility, strength, and stability we need to live a full, active life.

So while you’ll always find me happily stretching on—and off!—my mat, I’m making sure strength has a regular place in my practice, too.

Let’s do both together this week. I’ll see you on the mat!