Stretching

I constantly refer to this program as a journey because there is so much growing and stretching that happens along the way.  Stretching isn't always fun, and sometimes it's downright painful!  I'm finding that to be very true as I continue therapy following my knee replacement surgery.

Stiff muscles are always resistant to stretching, and I know that if I stop where it feels comfortable, my range of motion will be limited - far less than what I want it to be and what it can be.  My physical therapist pushes me to the point of pain, has me hold the stretch or the bend, then pushes me a bit farther.  What's really interesting, however, is that if I stretch as far as I can and hold it for a minute or so, even though it hurts, the muscles relax and I can go just a bit more.  If I hold that for another minute or so, I can stretch farther yet.  It's a painful process, but a necessary one and by continuing to push and stretch beyond what I think I'm capable of doing, I will regain full use of my knee.

For many of you (and formerly me!) on Take Shape for Life/Medifast's 5&1, you are stretching some muscles you haven't used in a while.  I used to say that every time I turned down a food temptation, I was strengthening my "no thank you" muscle :-).  Whenever we stretch those muscles, it's initially not comfortable and sometimes even a bit painful.  But if we hold the position for a moment or two, the pain leaves and we find we can make a little more progress.  We won't get there all at once, but if we're persistent and refuse to give ground, and if we're willing to keep stretching, we WILL get there!

If you're feeling some tight muscles today as this program stretches you, hold your position and don't back off, because you will soon be reaching further than you can imagine - all the way to your goal.  So decide to stretch today, then choose wisely :-)