5 Movements to Reset Your Body Before 2026 Begins
The end of December is usually a blur — travel, sitting for long stretches, bigger meals, busier schedules, holiday stress, and less routine. And while the brain might be ready for the year to end, the body often feels tight, tired, stiff, and out of rhythm.
Before January hits and life switches gears again, this is the perfect time to give your body a gentle reset — not with a hardcore workout, but with simple, targeted movements that help you feel lighter, looser, and more energised.
At Good Vibes Physio, we love these five because they work for just about anyone — no equipment, no gym, no sweat required.
1. The Hip Flexor Reset
Why: Sitting in cars, on couches, and at Christmas lunches shortens the hip flexors, which can pull on your lower back.
How:
Kneel on one knee
Tuck tailbone slightly
Lean forward until you feel a stretch at the front of the hip
Hold 20–30 seconds each side
What you’ll feel: lower back relief + easier standing posture.
2. Thoracic Spine Rotation
Why: Stress, screens, and travel stiffen the upper back, leading to tight shoulders and neck.
How:
Sit cross-legged or on a chair
Place hands behind head
Rotate gently left to right
10–12 slow reps each way
What you’ll feel: more freedom through rib cage + easier breathing.
3. Cat–Cow Flow
Why: It wakes up your spine after days of compression and stillness.
How:
On hands and knees
Tuck chin + round spine (cat)
Lift chest + arch gently (cow)
Move slowly for 30–45 seconds
What you’ll feel: smoother movement + less stiffness.
4. Ankle Rock Backs
Why: Ankles get stiff from lack of movement — then every step feels heavy.
How:
Kneel, one foot forward
Shift knee over toes
Move gently 10–15 reps
Switch sides
What you’ll feel: better walking and squatting instantly.
5. Shoulder Blade Slides
Why: Perfect for shoulder tension from stress, screens, or heavy bags.
How:
Stand or sit tall
Slide shoulder blades up, back, and down
Keep rib cage relaxed
10–15 slow reps
What you’ll feel: less neck tension + better posture.
How to Use These Movements
You don’t need to commit hours. Try:
5 minutes in the morning
5 minutes at night
1–2 movements during the day
Small moments → big relief.
And if your body isn’t used to moving much at the end of the year? Even better. Your nervous system will love the variety.
Why This Matters Right Now
If you walk into 2026 already stiff, sore, and tense… you’re starting behind. But gentle movement today helps:
Reduce back tension
Improve posture
Reset breathing
Reconnect brain + body
Boost mood + energy
Prepare for New Year goals
Think of this as a warm-up for the year ahead.
A Quick Reminder
If anything feels sharp, painful, or uncomfortable — stop.
Movement should feel relaxing, freeing, and controlled.
And if something feels “stuck,” sore, or worrying? That’s a great sign your body needs a bit more help.
Start 2026 Fresh
If you want support moving into the new year with less tension and more confidence, our physios are here to help.
Book a January reset session at Good Vibes Physio and step into 2026 feeling mobile, strong, and ready.
