A physician once walked into one of our resistance stretching class with a scowl.
His first words were, “I don’t want to be here. My wife made me come.”
Fair enough.
We’ve all been dragged somewhere we didn’t wants to go…holiday parties, dentist chairs, the DMV. This was his version of that.
But the funny thing is, he came back.
The second time he walked through the door, he said…
“I don’t want to be here… but it’s the only thing that works.”
Now that’s a turnaround.
And you know what? He’s not the only one.
Over the years we’ve had plenty of people arrive at RiversZen with arms crossed and hope running on empty.
They’d tried everything… pills, injections, physical therapy, surgeries on the horizon.
Then, after a few weeks of contracted stretching and mindful movement, something shifted.
The pain eased. Their body started to feel strong, loose, and alive again.
That’s why we teach what we teach.
Contracted stretching isn’t just “stretching.” It strengthens and lengthens at the same time, rewiring the muscle so it functions the way it’s supposed to.
Pair that with qi gong or gentle flows, and you’re not just managing symptoms, you’re actually moving toward freedom.
People who once thought they were “just getting old” suddenly discover they can bend, twist, squat, and climb stairs without that constant ache.
The relief is real. And it lasts.
So if you ever find yourself saying, “I don’t want to do this,” that’s okay.
Show up anyway.
Try it.
Because you just might find yourself saying, “I don’t want to be here… but it works.”
And wouldn’t that be worth it?
Try this today
Pick one simple movement—maybe a slow stretch for your hamstrings, contracting the muscle as you lengthen it. Add three deep breaths. Feel how quickly your body responds. That’s the beginning of something life-changing.
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What we share is for informational and educational purposes only… It is not medical advice… we’re not doctors. We’re just sharing what’s worked for us and thousands of others. Be sure and always check with your healthcare team before making changes.