Neck side stretch

Neck · Seated · about 50 seconds · Updated 25 September 2026

The neck side stretch tilts one ear toward its shoulder while the other hand holds the seat edge, keeping that shoulder down. It stretches the side of the neck and the top of the shoulder, where many people who work at a desk feel tension. Hold each side for about 20 seconds, without pulling.

How to do the neck side stretch

1. Hold the seat edge with one hand to anchor that shoulder.
2. Slowly tilt the other ear toward its shoulder.
3. Hold, return slowly, switch sides.

What it works

• Side of the neck
• Top of the shoulder

How long and how often

In a Posture break it's a 20-second hold on each side, about 50 seconds in total, as part of the Neck & shoulders break. It's meant to be repeated through the day in short breaks rather than done once; doing it regularly matters more than the exact timing.

Tips

• Shoulder down, ear over
• No pulling
• Stop if it tingles

Who should skip it

• Neck instability, recent whiplash, or dizziness when moving my neck

Move gently, in a comfortable range. Stop if you feel sharp pain, numbness, tingling or dizziness.