Car calisthenics can curb stress.

Commuters in their cars after a grueling day on the job know a workout probably would do them good, but traffic is miserable and making it to the gym will be a hassle. Occupational therapists at Saint Louis University Health Sciences Center's Spine/Hand/Rehabilitation Center may have the solution. They point out that simple stretching exercises can be performed in the car to help relieve daily stress.

Tense muscles fail to receive the circulation necessary to perform tasks comfortably. Stretching for a few minutes while sitting in traffic can relax the muscles, restore the blood flow, and prevent discomfort. The following stretches are suggested when people are stuck in traffic:

Neck. (All stretches should be done facing forward.) Turn head slowly from side to side, holding at a maximal stretch until you feel a release of tension. Slowly bend head, tipping ear to shoulder. Bend head forward and backward. Do this slowly to make sure the maximum amount of tension is released.

Shoulder. (Make sure vehicle is completely stopped when performing these stretches.)...