Stretching is an important part of properly exercising. Every time I work out, stretching precedes weightlifting, aerobics, and any sort of conditioning.
Physical stretching isn't the only kind of stretching I do. I stretch my mind by reading. I stretch my spirit through worship, meditation, and instruction. I've stretched my capacity for love, for forgiveness and for empathy. Interestingly, I've never stretched to a breaking point; the more I stretch those qualities, the more I'm able to stretch them.