1. Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart.
2. Reach both arms above your head and clasp your hands together, with your fingers interlaced and palms facing upward.
3. Begin to gently bend backwards, pushing your hips forward and arching your back.
4. Keep your arms straight and try to extend them slightly behind your head, ensuring that you feel the stretch in your shoulders and upper back.
5. Be sure to keep your neck aligned with your spine to avoid straining it.
6. Hold the stretch position for 20-30 seconds while breathing deeply and evenly.
7. Slowly return to the starting position with arms overhead.
8. Release your hands and lower your arms to your sides.
9. Repeat the stretch 2-3 times as needed.
As with any stretching exercise, it's important to go only as far as is comfortable, and not to overextend to the point of pain. This stretch is beneficial for improving flexibility in the upper body and easing tension in the back and shoulders.
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