Let's Briefly Talk About Fascia

Have you heard the term fascia before? I had no idea what this was until I first learned about it during kinesiology class in massage school two years ago. My teacher at the time would pronounce it in a funny, eccentric way as " faaaa-scha." *cue jazz hands* She taught me so much about the human body and she was absolutely fascinated with fascia. As I went through school I also started to become very interested in this structure. Even more so after I graduated and have been working with clients on a daily basis, it's something that I prioritize in my massages.

So what is fascia?

Fascia is a thin casing or fabric of connective tissue that surrounds and holds every organ, blood vessel, bone, nerve fiber and muscle in place. Literally it’s a web that envelops our entire body. When we have been inactive for long periods time for whatever the reason may be, our fascia starts to bind together. Our muscles can’t move freely so this in turn creates muscle stiffness, tightness, decreased range of motion, pain, trigger points, and adhesions

How can we address this?

Massage therapists use a special massage technique called myofascial release. This consists of sustained pressure, very slowly to work the multiple layers of fascia. It helps to break down adhesions between the tissues, soften and loosens the constricted fascia. It’s best to not use any oil or lotions when doing this technique so that our hands can easily feel the fascial restrictions. When I begin a massage I always start by doing this technique, especially on the back and shoulders.

Here are some tips on how you can take care of your fascia!

1. Stay hydrated! Drink more water daily. I can immediately tell how hydrated someone is by the feel of their skin. Hydrated skin & fascia moves easily, with little restriction. The opposite affect is felt when someone isn't very hydrated.

2. Stretch and move your body more often. Take small breaks from your devices, work, etc to move your body. Make it manageable for you! Set a timer for as little as 5 minutes and bring movement into your body. Google is your best friend when it comes to free resources on how to stretch.

3. Book a myofascial massage! Scout out providers who are specifically trained in this technique, but also know that any kind of bodywork will help reduce fascial restrictions, so basically just book a massage

4. Use a foam roller to roll out tight spots. Go slow. Sink into those uncomfortable tight areas of your body and feel your muscles give into gravity.

5. Use an at home self care cupping kit. With a little researching on the subject beforehand you can buy your own cup kit and slide or static cup most parts of your body. As an LMT, I use these on myself very often. The relief that is felt from cupping work is incredible.

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little bit about fascia with me. If you have any questions about this blog post, feel free to contact me and I'll do my best to provide you with guidance. With love, Hailey.

{I am a Licensed Massage Therapist & registered hypnotherapist trained in BodyMind Bridge, with the intention to walk alongside you, so you can deeply transform, release, explore, align, and heal your entire being. I am here to provide bodywork education online and if you’re wanting to discuss a hypnotherapy session with me, contact me and let’s start talking}

Reference Photo:

(n.d.). Myofasical Adhesion [Review of Myofasical Adhesion]. https://motionhealth.com.au/common-conditions/muscle-tendon-injuries/myofascial-adhesion/