Loose at the hinges

Heat settles into the body. So does sitting still for hours. Either way, the limbs can feel heavy and the joints slow to wake.

Some people find that slow, loose movement frees a stiff body more than forcing it. Easy swings, gentle rotations, nothing rushed. In yoga, gentle joint-loosening (sometimes called sukshma vyayama) has long been used to free the body. Some research suggests gentle movement may ease stiffness.

Which parts of yours loosen first?

Stand with your feet a little apart and let your arms hang loose.

Move slowly and easily. Roll the shoulders, circle the wrists and ankles, sway from side to side. Let the limbs feel heavy, and keep it unhurried so you loosen without heating up.

Give it a few slow minutes each day for a week, and notice which parts loosen first, and whether they ease sooner as the days go on.