I mentioned yesterday that the posts for the next two weeks are going to be about your health and how it affects your writing.

I’m not going to tell you to exercise or how to exercise – you probably wouldn’t listen to me anyway.

However, I will strongly recommend a few activities that will increase your blood flow.

When you get your body moving your heart rate increases. It pumps blood faster – to all the organs and muscles in your body.

It also stimulates the release of other hormones. Endorphins being the ones that put a smile on your face and often kick up your libido too. (both effects are good for writing romance:-D)

A Simple, but effective, Way to Kick Start Your Writing Time

Stretch.

Yep, that’s it. Stretch for about fifteen minutes each morning or before you begin your writing for the day. It feels fantastic. Your mind gets clearer and the blood begins to circulate more quickly through your body. Here’s what I do every morning – nothing complicated and it really gets the creative juices flowing.

Lie down on the floor and stretch your hips, back and neck. Do whatever feels good at the moment. There’s no pre-designed routine. I often bring my knees to my chest one at a time. Then I’ll rotate my knees to the side to stretch my back.

Sit up and stretch hips and back. Again, do what feels right. Trust your instincts about your body. I often cross my legs with one leg on top and lean forward to stretch my hips. Then I’ll switch and place the other leg on top to stretch the other side.

Stand. Here’s where I embrace a few yoga moves. Downward dog seems to do the trick here and hanging forward bend. Then I slowly roll up and bring my hands and arms up into the air for a full sun salutation. If my body feels done, then I go get situated at my desk and begin my day. If not, then I repeat a few moves.

Here’s the key to getting the most from your morning stretching routine:

• Do it every day – it provides the most benefits when you least want to do it.
• As you’re stretching, think only about how your body feels. Don’t think about what you’re going to do next or your task list for the day. Focus on your body and how it feels.
• Pay attention to your body and let it tell you what to stretch next.

If you can manage a morning yoga class or even have time for an online yoga class or DVD, great! If not, simply give yourself fifteen minutes to awaken your body with a few stretches. Try it for a few days, you’ll notice a difference in your day and in your writing productivity and enjoyment.

(Oh, and if you’re in the midst of writing and feeling stuck. Set it aside and stretch for a few minutes or go for a walk. You’ll come back to the page refreshed and energized.)