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November 08, 2024 01:13 PM IST
The study completely exposes the science behind the fear of stretching. However, your brain may be to blame for its own reasons.
Except in the body-twisting game Twister, humans have tunnel vision with respect to their flexibility, which sometimes broadens their perception. But leaving this aside, there is, generally, a tendency to stay within physical limits, and not to stretch or bend one’s extremities beyond any perceived obstruction. A study from Ruhr University Bochum, published in Communications Psychology, shed light on this by examining the wrist flexibility of its participants.
Also read: 10 Amazing Benefits of Stretching Every Day for Your Body and Mind
skewed perception of body flexibility
It is not unique to anyone that the brain plays an important role in determining body image. Motor planning also arises from the perception of the brain. Therefore there is a natural tendency to misjudge the body’s functions and capabilities. The researchers in this study expanded the understanding of body flexibility by assessing the flexibility of motion of the wrist joint.
The study involved 84 participants who were asked to estimate how far they could rotate their wrist in each of four directions. Participants either imagined these wrist movements or used an angular ruler to estimate the limit they thought they could reach. But when researchers measured the actual mobility of participants’ wrists in four directions. In most cases, people underestimated how far they could move by about 10 degrees.
Also read: 5 Seated Stretching Exercises for Seniors to Try This Morning
subconsciously protecting the body
The researchers explained this difference as a protective mechanism. Lead author Dr. Artur Pilacinski describes this underestimation as a safety measure that protects the body from overextension and risk of injury. This is a built-in safety measure that promotes small, controlled activities to protect against potential stress. This misconception of flexibility helps people stay safe, keep their joints healthy, and prevent stretching beyond safe limits. The brain remains alert and prevents injuries by misjudging the body’s flexibility.
So again, when you’re doing stretching exercises and yoga, and you’re hesitant and think you can’t do it—remember that it’s all in your mind. How else do you suddenly get Elasti Girl’s superpower in the game of Twisters to defeat your opponents? No one likes a good challenge like the brain.
Also read: Lesser Known Benefits of Stretching for Your Body and Mind
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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