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What It Does
When everyday crises hit (like morning traffic or a contentious conversation), feelings of stress often gather along the spine, primarily in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Used as a warm-up routine by modern dancers, this exercise loosens those areas so energy can flow more freely.

How to Do It
Stand tall with feet about 4 feet apart, toes turned out, and arms extended like airplane wings. Exhale and reach both arms up, leaning your torso toward the right. In the same breath, rotate the torso so your belly faces the floor. Holding this position, sweep your body to the right side, slightly bending the knees. Reverse direction. Do four times in each direction, alternating.