10 Relaxing Stretching Workouts to Relax Your Body

Feeling stiff, stressed, or just in need of a reset? You’re not alone. With our fast-paced lifestyles, it’s easy to let tension build up in our bodies without even realizing it. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a fancy gym or a yoga studio to unwind. Stretching is a simple, budget-friendly, and highly effective way to release physical and mental stress. According to the American Council on Exercise, regular stretching not only improves flexibility but also enhances circulation and calms the nervous system.In this guide, we’re sharing 10 relaxing stretching workouts designed to help you slow down, reconnect, and truly relax. These stretches are gentle, beginner-friendly, and perfect for integrating into your morning or evening routine. Let your breath guide you, and let’s dive into the soothing world of restorative movement.

1. Neck Release Stretch

One of the first places we carry tension is the neck. Whether you’re sitting at a desk all day or dealing with everyday stress, the neck and shoulders bear the brunt.Start by sitting comfortably, shoulders relaxed. Drop your right ear toward your right shoulder and hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Feel the stretch along the left side of your neck. To deepen the stretch, gently press down on your left shoulder or place your right hand lightly on your head for a bit of added weight.Repeat on the other side, and notice how even a simple stretch like this can ease built-up pressure. Pair it with deep breaths to enhance relaxation.Benefits include better posture, reduced headaches, and improved circulation in the upper body. Make it a daily habit and you’ll start feeling more open and at ease.

2. Cat-Cow Flow

This gentle spinal warm-up is perfect for starting or ending your day. It increases flexibility and brings awareness to your breathing.Begin on all fours in a tabletop position. As you inhale, arch your back, tilt your pelvis back, and lift your head—this is Cow Pose. On the exhale, round your spine, tuck your chin, and draw your belly in—this is Cat Pose. Flow between these two with each breath.Cat-Cow improves spinal mobility and gently stretches the back and core. It also helps with digestion and posture. Just 1–2 minutes of this flow can energize your spine and bring a wave of calm to your system.

3. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)

This classic seated pose provides a deep hamstring and back stretch. Sit with your legs extended straight in front of you. Inhale and reach your arms up, then exhale as you fold forward from the hips.Don’t worry if you can’t touch your toes. Let your hands rest wherever they fall—on your thighs, shins, or ankles. The goal is to gently lengthen the spine and breathe deeply.This pose encourages introspection, calms the mind, and promotes flexibility in the spine and hamstrings. It’s a powerful way to wind down after a stressful day.

4. Child’s Pose (Balasana)

Child’s Pose is a deeply grounding stretch that offers a sense of safety and surrender. Kneel on your mat, touch your big toes together, and sit back on your heels. Fold forward, letting your forehead rest on the mat and your arms stretch out in front.If your hips feel tight, widen your knees for more space. Breathe into your lower back and feel your body melting into the floor.Balasana soothes the nervous system and gently opens the hips, thighs, and ankles. It’s ideal for countering the overstimulation of everyday life and reconnecting with your breath.

5. Supine Twist

Lie on your back and hug your knees to your chest. Gently lower your knees to one side while keeping your shoulders grounded. Extend the opposite arm and gaze in that direction.This stretch targets the spine, obliques, and hips while stimulating digestion. It also relieves tension from the lower back and promotes spinal alignment.Stay for at least 30 seconds per side, allowing your breath to soften the muscles. This pose is particularly beneficial before bed or after sitting for long periods.

6. Happy Baby Pose (Ananda Balasana)

This playful pose brings a smile to your face while deeply releasing the lower back and hips. Lie on your back, bend your knees toward your chest, and grab the outsides of your feet.Gently pull your knees toward your armpits while keeping your feet flexed. Rock side to side to massage your back against the mat.Happy Baby reduces fatigue, relieves lower back tension, and encourages emotional balance. It’s a wonderful reminder to let go and embrace joy.

7. Butterfly Stretch

Sit with your knees bent and the soles of your feet pressed together. Hold your feet and gently let your knees fall toward the floor.Keep your spine long and breathe into the hips. For a deeper stretch, fold forward with a straight spine.This pose targets the groin, hips, and inner thighs. It’s calming, improves flexibility, and stimulates abdominal organs. Ideal for relieving tension in the pelvic area.

8. Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani)

This deeply restorative pose supports circulation and relaxation. Sit sideways next to a wall and swing your legs up while lying back.Let your arms rest at your sides and close your eyes. Stay for 5–10 minutes, breathing slowly and fully.It helps reduce swelling in the feet, calms the nervous system, and improves blood flow. This pose is excellent after travel, long days, or whenever you need a reset.

9. Reclining Pigeon Pose (Figure 4 Stretch)

Lie on your back and cross your right ankle over your left thigh. Thread your hands behind the left thigh and gently pull it toward your chest.This stretch opens the outer hip and glute. Repeat on both sides, holding each for 30 seconds or more.It helps with sciatica, hip tightness, and lower back discomfort. Use this pose regularly to maintain hip mobility and ease muscular tension.

10. Savasana with Guided Breathwork

Finish your routine with a meditative rest. Lie flat on your back, arms relaxed by your sides, and close your eyes. Focus on slow, deep breathing.You can guide yourself through a simple breath count: inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6. Allow your body to absorb all the benefits of your practice.Savasana anchors you in the present moment, resets your nervous system, and promotes emotional clarity. It’s the perfect way to complete your stretching session.

Conclusion

When life feels overwhelming, your body often carries the weight. But these 10 relaxing stretching workouts offer a gentle and accessible path to feeling better—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether you’re starting your day, winding down in the evening, or simply need a mid-day reset, these stretches bring your body back into balance.