Salon Stretches for Happy Hands

After going through the experience of the stay at home order, it is fair to say that many of us had to opt for the dreaded quarantine cut. Despite giving it our best go, we can all agree that we are anxiously waiting for the doors to our favorite hair salons and barbershops to re-open. 

As these businesses begin the process of re-opening, we want to make sure that our stylists keep their bodies happy and healthy. Seventy-five percent of beauty professionals suffer from some form of musculoskeletal stress disorder by the age 50! We want to help prevent that. Below, we have some tips to keep beauticians’ bodies going through the busy weeks and months ahead!

Take micro breaks:

Micro breaks can be taken when moving from one client to the next, or when simply switching tools. During these micro breaks, focus on a quick stretch or re-align your posture. 

Nutrition and Hydration:

Make sure to fuel your body consistently throughout the day. Hydration is important for our musculoskeletal system, as is the nutrition we provide to our bodies to keep going.

Avoid overextended and crowded workdays: 

We know that this is difficult to do, as many clients will be seeking your services. However, this is important to protect our bodies from fatigue. 

Posture and Alignment:

Focus on keeping your shoulders and neck in good alignment with stretches and exercises.  Simple good stretches include wrist flexion and extension, pectoralis, and upper trapezius stretches.

Wrist extension stretch – Bringing wrist into extension and hold 30-60 seconds.

Wrist flexion stretch – Bringing wrist into flexion and hold 30-60 seconds. 

Pectoralis stretch – This can be done in a doorway or corner of a room. 

• Place your arms on the wall so that your upper arms are parallel to the floor, with elbows bent to 90 degrees. 
• Step forward until you feel a stretch. Hold 30-60 seconds. 

Upper Trapezius stretch – Place hand on opposite side of head and gently pull for a stretch. Hold 30-60 seconds.

If you happen to have any further questions or concerns, our clinicians are available for complimentary injury screens at all of our clinics throughout the Greater Seattle area. We hope these tips are useful to you!