Why this one exists
The side of the neck shortens after hours of looking slightly down and in. A slow side tilt lengthens the upper trapezius without yanking the joint.
Set up
Sit tall on a chair. Feet flat. Let the shoulders drop away from the ears before you move the head.
Steps
- Inhale and sit taller, as if a string lifts the crown.
- Exhale and tip the right ear toward the right shoulder. Do not shrug.
- Optional: rest the right hand on the left side of the head with almost no extra pull.
- Breathe into the left side of the neck. Switch sides after the hold.
What you should feel
A narrow line of stretch from the ear toward the shoulder. Not a pinch at the top of the spine.
Skip if it hurts
Skip or ease off if you feel dizziness, arm tingling, or a sharp pinch at the base of the skull.
Common mistakes
Do not crank the head with both hands. Do not roll the chin across the chest while you are already in a side bend.