One of the systems we study as we train to become massage therapists is a network of connective tissue that lies just beneath the skin (and even deeper, wrapping around muscles and bundles of muscle fibres). It is mostly comprised of a web of collagen fibres that afford us flexibility and tensile strength at its best, but these fibres can dry out and adhere to adjacent tissues, restricting movement and even causing pain. I’m talking about fascia, and one of the most amazing things is that I can feel it stretch and pull beneath my hands as I do my work.
Fascia is explained in great detail in Thomas W. Meyers’ Anatomy Trains, which formed the basis of myofascial work I learned in school (and I have a copy on my bookshelf and my iPad). Much like the older meridians of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and shiatsu, fascia runs in connected bands that work together to help our bodies move and keep us upright. Not only do they help us move, but movement is in an integral part of keeping these tissues healthy and malleable, as is drinking enough water to keep this network properly hydrated and flexible.
Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of watching a documentary on Curiosity Stream called Fascia: Secrets Under the Skin. Meyers and many other experts in the field were interviewed, including Dr. Carla Stecco who created the Functional Atlas of the Human Fascial System. I got to see what fascia looks like via ultrasound, including before and after various manual therapies, and it was a treat to have further visuals for this tissue that I manipulate on a near-daily basis. The documentary gave me ideas of how I can further my manual therapy education in order to better understand and work with this system to alleviate tension and pain, and aid in improving my clients’ flexibility.
When it comes to working on my own fascia, I favour a combination of gentle and sustained stretching, and exercising with a foam roller. The latter requires decent balance and upper body strength to work the legs especially, and it can feel extremely intense depending on what area you’re working (looking at you, IT band!). This makes it a great invitation for me to slow things down and actively tune in to my body’s messages, and when I succeed in that, I come out of such sessions feeling unwound, relaxed, and often a little energized.
Remember, my anniversary promo is on through August 31st, so book your 50% off massage if you haven’t already!
I will be away pet sitting starting mid-September and returning with limited availability toward the end of the month. I will be unavailable:
- September 17th through 29th (inclusive)
