🌸 Move, Stretch & Strengthen: Supporting Breast Cancer Recovery 🌸 W arms slides

🌸 Exercise #5: Supine W Arm Slides (Shoulder Mobility) This gentle exercise helps improve shoulder mobility, chest flexibility, and shoulder blade control while encouraging better posture and upper-body function during recovery. Lie comfortably on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the mat. Place a yoga block or small pillow between your thighs as a reminder to gently engage your core and avoid arching your back or flaring your ribs. Keep your chin slightly tucked, with a folded blanket supporting your head if needed. Bend your elbows and position your arms in a W-shape, with your elbows drawing toward your ribs. Slowly slide your arms upward along the mat, opening into a cactus shape, with elbows approaching shoulder level. Gently slide your arms back down, drawing your elbows toward your ribs and returning to the W-shape. Keep your arms and hands in contact with the mat as much as comfortably possible, without forcing the movement. Repeat slowly, keeping your ribs relaxed, core gently engaged, and shoulders away from your ears. 💗 Remember: Focus on smooth, controlled movements rather than how far your arms travel. Avoid arching your back or lifting your ribs to compensate for limited shoulder mobility. ✨ With each repetition, invite a little more openness, mobility, and ease through your chest and shoulders. ⚠️ Medical Reminder: Always obtain clearance from your medical team before beginning or resuming exercise following breast cancer surgery or treatment. Follow any post-surgical movement restrictions, particularly after reconstruction, and avoid painful stretching or straining. One breath, one movement, one step at a time. 🌷 💗 Thank you for watching! I hope these gentle exercises help you improve mobility, rebuild strength, and feel more confident in your recovery journey. If you found these videos helpful, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who might benefit. 🌸 I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment or send me a note if you’d like to see more exercises or have suggestions for future videos. Keep moving, keep breathing, and be kind to yourself—one step at a time! 🧘‍♀️✨