Got a stiff or tight neck? Quit stretching, straining, or massaging it!

Instead, try this simple, gentle series of Feldenkrais-inspired movements to see how powerful the eyes can be in organizing—and freeing—the movement of the head and the neck.

This quick lesson is great for driving (before, not during!), you’ve been staring at a computer screen for too long, or you just need to quickly see what your four-year-old is doing behind you.

I recommend watching the video first, then reading the steps below and trying it for yourself.

You can do this in standing or sitting.

Do each movement variation 2 or 3 times. (In the video, I do each one twice.)

Go *slowly*, and keep breathing throughout! Don’t push into any strain or tension; keep it light, easy, and comfortable.

1. First, turn your head and eyes to the right and let your eyes do what they naturally do. This is the “reference movement.” You’ll return to it several times throughout the lesson.
2. Rest, then turn your head to the right and keep the eyes straight ahead.
3. Rest, then turn your head right as you turn the eyes to the left.
4. Rest, then do the reference movement.
5. Repeat the entire sequence on the other side.
6. Finally, turn your head to the right and left, letting your eyes move naturally, and see if you have more range and ease in each direction.