THE FASCIA -YOUR INNER MATRIX
I see the human body as a micro-cosmos of the larger universe, with each part connected to the whole in intricate and meaningful ways. The fascia, in particular, is a fascinating example of this interconnectedness. It serves as a web that links together muscles, bones, and organs, allowing them to function in harmony and balance.
Beyond its physical role, the fascia also holds a deeper significance. As it represents the unseen connections that bind us all together, reminding us that we are not isolated individuals but part of a larger whole. In this sense, the fascia can be seen as a metaphor for the interconnectedness of all things, and a reminder of the importance of harmony and balance in our lives.
From the philosophical to the physical
Fascia is incredibly important for any movement we make. When it's tight or damaged, it can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, muscle pain, neck and back pain, lack of flexibility, and poor posture. The most common causes for tight fascia are prolonged standing or sitting, lack of stretching, intense physical training, chronic inflammation, and poor posture. Trauma, both physical and emotional, can also be a factor.
Fortunately, there are ways to keep your fascia healthy for life. When it's healthy, your fascia is smooth and supple. But when you're sedentary, it can become like cement.
To prevent this:
1. Stretch your body every day. Take a few minutes to stretch from head to toe- never forcing your way through a stretch.
2. Drink enough water. Healthy fascia has a gel-like consistency. Just like every other tissue in your body, your fascia works better and feels so much better when it’s properly hydrated.
3. Walk more. If you are busy and don’t feel like doing Yoga or spending a lot of time sitting- find ways to move your body whenever you can- use the stairs instead of the elevator, walk to the next bus station instead of waiting for the bus.
4. Roll it out. You can use soft tissue mobilization tools such as foam rollers to roll out your fascia (remember a softer pressure is better- you should not feel pain) . If you push into the pain zone, your muscles will tighten up. This will cause your fascia to grip down and crystallize. Be sure to warm up the area you are working on, then slowly work deeper into the tissue for more release.
5. Listen to your body. Every body needs time off to rest- a basic self-care premise. Trying to “push through” an injury will only set you up for a potential chronic problem. So, take some extra time for you, to relax when you need to. This allows your body to regenerate, and ensures that temporary imbalances don’t become permanent.
6. Salt baths. One easy way to relax your body and mind is by taking a warm salt bath for 20 minutes before bed at night. When you get out of the tub, move your body lightly for about 10 minutes. This will keep blood from stagnating in your muscles.
Remember, you don’t need to be injured to try these techniques and release the fascia. The benefits of facial release are numerous. From less pain to better posture, deeper breathing to increased energy, improved flexibility and coordination.
