Think slumped shoulders, head forward, and curved spine.
Soreness also often comes from chronically tense muscles (viaYoga Journal).
Wherever your neck strain is coming from, this pop in of pain can be debilitating.
So, if your neck is especially tight, slow down and try one of these exercises.
To help relieve pain, try a seated spinal twist.
Repeat on the other side.
Another seated neck stretch to help ease pain throughout this area of the body?
Neck rolls, which help lengthen the tendons on the side of the neck (viaYoga Journal).
Then slowly drop your right ear towards your right shoulder, holding for five seconds.
Repeat toward your left shoulder.
Bring your feet hip-width apart and start to breathe deeply.
Repeat this six times, then perform six circles in each direction (viaWebMD).
This movement helps to launch the chest muscles, while stretching the shoulder and neck.
The next stretch is a favorite of workout junkies and yoga enthusiasts alike.
Start to pull the knuckles towards the floor as you slightly lift your gaze and breathe (viaSelf).
Adjust the intensity of the stretch as needed by tightening or loosing your downward pull.
Whatever you do, breathe deeply and be gentle with your neck; it may just need some TLC.
Luckily, neck pain is no match for your breath and a few powerful stretches.
