Brought to you by New West Wellness Centre, New Westminster, BC

November 28th, 2025

The holiday season in New Westminster is festive, exciting, and… let’s be honest — a little overwhelming. Between social events, family gatherings, financial strain, travel stress, and never-ending to-do lists, it’s common for your body to feel the impact.

A moderate amount of stress can help keep you focused and energized, but holiday overload often leads to muscle tension, especially in the neck, shoulders, and jaw. Many people unknowingly hold stress in their bodies, causing stiffness, headaches, and discomfort.

Prioritizing self-care during this busy season can make all the difference. Along with staying active and giving yourself adequate downtime, try these five quick and effective stretches to help your body release holiday tension.

1. Neck Release

Perfect for tight neck muscles and tech-neck.

Sit or stand tall with your spine aligned.
Gently tilt your head toward your left shoulder.
Hold for 10 seconds, breathing slowly.
Repeat on the right side.

This simple stretch helps release built-up tension and improves mobility.

2. Shoulder Rolls

Great for office workers and anyone carrying holiday stress in their shoulders.

Stand relaxed with arms at your sides.
Roll your shoulders forward in slow, controlled circles five times.
Reverse direction and roll backward five times.

This movement reopens the chest, relaxes the upper back, and improves posture.

3. Reach for the Sky

A wonderful whole-body reset.

Stand tall with your back and neck straight.
Reach both arms overhead, palms facing each other.
Inhale and gently bend to the left, holding for 10 seconds.
Return to center and repeat on the right.

This stretch helps lengthen the spine and improve flexibility.

4. Lower Body Blast (Gentle Knee Bends)

Ideal for improving circulation and loosening stiff legs.

Stand tall and place a hand on a chair or counter for support.
Slowly bend your knees as if starting a small squat.
Straighten back up with control.
Repeat 10 times.

Keep movements gentle and pain-free — this is about mobility, not strength training.

5. Open Wide (Jaw Stretch)

Perfect for people who clench their jaw or grind their teeth during stressful seasons.

Sit or stand with your shoulders relaxed.
Slowly open your mouth wide to stretch the jaw muscles.
Repeat five times.

This helps relieve jaw tension, which is commonly linked to holiday stress.

Start the Holiday Season Feeling Your Best

Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. A few minutes of stretching each day can help reduce tension, improve mobility, and keep your body feeling balanced throughout the busy season.

At New West Wellness Centre in New Westminster, our team is here to support your health through personalized, patient-centered care.