Step 1
Starting Position: Stand with your feet hip-width apart, toes pointing forward or turned slightly outward; arms by your sides. Engage your abdominal muscles to stabilize your spine. Pull your shoulder blades down and back. Do not allow your low back to arch.
Step 2
Slowly bring right ear toward your right shoulder stopping when you feel the stretch. Be sure to maintain body alignment keeping your shoulders down and back. Hold the stretch for 5-10 seconds. Slowly return to starting position. Repeat on the left side. Perform a total of 2-4 repetitions.
Step 3
Exercise Variation: (1) Increase the stretch by bringing your hand to the top of your head and gently applying a light pressure with your fingertips. (2) To stretch the sternocleidomastoid, after laterally flexing the neck, slowly lift you chin upwards.
Perform the exercise in a slow and controlled manner. Be careful not to push to forcefully when using your hand to increase the stretch. A light pressure is all that is needed.