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Start your day with this 5-minute yoga routine 6:38

That persistent tension in your back, hip or shoulder never seems to fully resolve despite stretching before and after workouts, foam rolling , and even visiting a massage therapist regularly.

In fact, sometimes the tightness feels worse after stretching. If this situation sounds familiar, your body might not just be tight — it may be protecting itself through involuntary muscle contractions.

Recognizing the distinction between mechanical tightness and protective tension is crucial for anyone experiencing chronic stiffness, recurring pain or short-term mobility gains that just won’t stick.

Understanding your body’s protection system

Your n

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