Many people say, “I️ hold my stress in my shoulders.” This is most likely from consistently contracting the upper trapezius muscles throughout daily postures. It is important to not only be aware of keeping your upper trapezius muscles relaxed, but also to take breaks to stretch the upper traps at least 2 to 3 times a day. Start by stretching each upper trap for about 30 seconds, contract the upper traps while fully lengthened with about 20% to 50% of muscle strength for about 8 seconds, and finish by fully stretching the upper trap while contracting the deep neck flexors with about 20% to 50% of muscle contraction by actively bringing the chin to the collar bone for at least 10 seconds.
