BodyBeats

One move

Thread the Needle

Mobility Upper body

How to read ahead. Do to go one move at a time.

From all fours, slide one arm under the body and across, then open it back up. Combines gentle rotation with a nice stretch through the upper back and shoulders.

Option. Hold the threaded position for a few breaths if it feels good. Keep the movement fluid rather than forced.

Show the steps
  1. 1

    Begin on hands and knees in a stable tabletop position.

  2. 2

    Reach one arm under the body and across, letting the shoulder and side of the head come toward the floor.

  3. 3

    Feel a gentle stretch through the upper back and rear shoulder.

  4. 4

    Reverse the motion, opening the arm up toward the ceiling if desired.

  5. 5

    Move with the breath — exhale as you thread, inhale as you open.

  6. 6

    Switch sides after the desired reps or time.

Thread the Needle

  • Releases tension across the upper back and between the shoulder blades
  • Gentle enough for almost any day yet effective
  • Pairs perfectly with cat-cow for a short mobility flow

Thread the Needle

Upper body

Move type

Mobility

Targets

Spine Spinal mobility Shoulders Posture

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The exercises on this website are general fitness ideas, not medical advice. Listen to your body, ease off if something feels sharp or wrong, and stop if you feel dizzy, faint, or short of breath. Talk to a doctor if you have any concerns.

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