Reprieve from Neck & Shoulder Strain

About This Class

This 27-minute restorative practice with Melissa Mercedes is designed to counteract the chronic forward-rounding of the shoulders and chest that accumulates from prolonged screen use, driving, nursing, and desk work. Using a blanket and two blocks, students move through a carefully sequenced series of floor-based poses — including Child's Pose, Cat-Cow, Thread the Needle, Open Wing (Broken Wing), and Supported Fish — each held long enough to invite genuine passive release. The instructor weaves in breath-focused guidance throughout, encouraging slow, full belly breathing as a tool not only for physical release but also for emotional regulation and stress relief. Modifications and prop alternatives are offered at every stage, making the class highly accessible. The overall arc moves from grounding and spinal warm-up to deep shoulder and chest opening, closing with a meditative seated moment and Namaste dedication.