Do you wake up feeling stiffer than when you went to bed? Does a deep ache in your lower back or a crick in your neck make those first few steps of the day a struggle? You are not alone. Many people over 60 believe this pain is just a "normal part of aging," but what if the very movements you are doing to "loosen up" are actually causing the damage? In this video, Dr. William Li reveals why common morning stretches—like the classic toe touch or neck rolls—can be dangerous for spinal discs and cold muscles. He explains the science of how your body changes overnight and provides a safe, 5-minute routine to replace these risky habits. ✅ In this video, Dr. William Li will share: The "Jelly Donut" analogy: Why your spinal discs are vulnerable in the morning. The 4 most common stretching mistakes that lead to herniation and sciatica. Safe, science-backed alternatives to protect your lower back and neck. The "5-Minute Sunrise Sequence": A complete, gentle routine to restore mobility and independence. How to strengthen your core without doing a single risky sit-up. Why This Matters: Your muscles and joints are cold and pressurized after a night of sleep. Forcing them into extreme ranges of motion or "bouncing" can cause micro-tears and inflammation. By switching to the stabilization and gentle mobilization techniques Dr. Li demonstrates, you can reduce chronic pain, protect your vertebral arteries, and reclaim the confidence to move freely. It’s not about stopping movement; it’s about moving intelligently. ⏰ TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction: Why Waking Up Hurts 01:10 The Fear of Losing Independence 02:13 The Root Cause of Morning Stiffness 03:15 Mistake #1: The Standing Toe Touch 03:41 The Science of Spinal Discs (The Jelly Donut) 04:52 Solution #1: Supported Hamstring Stretch 07:23 Mistake #2: Sit-ups and Crunches 08:22 Why Flexion Damages the Neck & Spine 09:14 Solution #2: Pelvic Tilts & Glute Bridges 11:33 Mistake #3: Ballistic Stretching (Bouncing) 12:08 The "Stretch Reflex" Explained 13:03 Solution #3: Cat-Cow Stretch 15:31 Mistake #4: Full Neck Circles 16:27 Dangers to the Cervical Spine & Arteries 16:54 Solution #4: Chin Tucks & Side Looks 19:09 The 5-Minute Sunrise Sequence (Full Routine) 21:45 Conclusion: You Are Not "Too Old" #DrWilliamLi #SeniorHealth #BackPainRelief #MorningStretches #Mobility #SpineHealth #HealthyAging #SciaticaRelief #JointPain #SafeStretching #CoreStrength #NeckPain #PhysicalTherapy #WellnessOver60 #MorningRoutine