Yoga practitioner claims these four poses effectively alleviate shoulder tension - testing their efficacy personally
In an effort to combat the effects of prolonged sitting and alleviate muscle knots, an individual has turned to a unique stretching routine, incorporating towels as a substitute for traditional sliders. This innovative approach, popularised by fitness influencer Emily Mouu, offers a targeted and dynamic method for relieving shoulder knots.
Emily Mouu's four exercises, as demonstrated in her video "4 must try moves to get rid of those knots in your shoulder blades," focus on gentle, targeted movements designed to release tension in the shoulder blades. Unlike traditional stretches that often involve static holding of positions, Emily's exercises appear to mobilise and gently release tension directly in the areas where knots form.
The individual found it easier to flow into the movements of the stretches with the use of towels, which also required them to control their movements to avoid moving too quickly or in the wrong direction. The exercises, done while kneeling, can be performed at home using a towel instead of Pilates sliders.
The exercises engage different parts of the shoulder and upper back, with the smaller muscles around the individual's joints being particularly engaged with the use of towels. As a result, the individual was able to move deeper into the stretch and felt their shoulders and upper back less stiff after performing the stretches with towels.
While Emily Mouu did not advise a specific number of reps for each exercise, the individual performed each exercise until they felt their shoulder muscles relaxing, which was about eight reps on each side. After completing the stretches, the individual felt they had moved through most of their range of motion.
It's important to note that while these exercises can provide relief, it's recommended to see a health professional if shoulder knots are restricting the range of motion or movement of the neck and shoulders. For full details, watching Emily Mouu's specific videos would provide the exact exercise breakdown.
The individual plans to incorporate these stretches into their exercise routine for long-term shoulder mobilization and knot reduction. By combining yoga, mobility, and targeted release moves, these exercises offer a more precise and movement-based technique than traditional static shoulder stretches, making them a valuable addition to any routine aimed at relieving shoulder knots.
[1] Emily Mouu's YouTube Channel: [Link to the video] [2] Mouu, E. (2021). 4 must try moves to get rid of those knots in your shoulder blades. [Video file]. [3] Mouu, E. (2020). How to improve shoulder mobility with wall-assisted movements. [Video file].
- The unique stretching routine, utilizing towels instead of traditional sliders, offers a flexible and dynamic method for relieving shoulder knots, as demonstrated by fitness influencer Emily Mouu in her video "4 must try moves to get rid of those knots in your shoulder blades."
- By incorporating these exercises into their workout, the individual is aiming at long-term shoulder mobilization and knot reduction, combining yoga, mobility, and targeted release moves for a more precise approach.
- The exercises, as detailed by Emily Mouu, are part of a holistic approach to wellness in the workplace, contributing to a health-and-wellness centered environment through fitness-and-exercise.
- Despite the benefits, it is always advisable to consult a health professional if shoulder knots are restricting range of motion or movement, as proposed in Mouu's cautionary advice in her 2021 video.
