What is fascia?


" I felt my body coming alive again, first in my fingers, then through the rest of my body." (David)
Fascia is a continuous web of connective tissue which infuses and surrounds every cell in our bodies. It is as personal and unique as a fingerprint and wraps around every muscle, organ, ligament, tendon and cell in our bodies.  It not only bathes every cell, but infuses it also, so much so that if our bones, muscles, neurological and cardiovascular systems were removed, you would still be able to recognise yourself. It's like a 3D imprint or a gel sculpture of you body.

It is composed of elastin, (which allows cells to bounce back from stretching and contracting), collagen and ground substance (a gel like viscose paste).  Fascia best supports the body when it is fluid and hydrated. It protects and supports muscles and organs, cushioning them from collapsing into each other, and it also acts as a shock absorber and stabilizer.

When fascia is placed under strain, more collagen and elastin fibres are laid down closer together, and the ground substance begins to harden and crystallize. These fibres shorten and become dehydrated leading to surrounding areas producing more collagen fibres. Thus the density and hardening spread.  This can restrict cardiovascular and lymphatic flow, which affects our bodies' ability to heal.  The interconnected nature of fascia means that restrictions in one area can create pain and tension in other areas. Imagine tugging at a piece of cloth - the lines of pull will ripple out across the whole cloth.

Sources of strain can come from poor posture and diet, injuries and shock, emotional as well as physical trauma. Anxiety and stress can affect our health as much as an accident. Indeed, fascia is able to store memories, and is closely linked to our fight, flight, freeze responses, through our adrenal and autonomic systems.  Trauma can be held in the body, even from birth.


 

What is Myofascial Release?



"I feel fluffed up inside like mousse. This is changing my negative experiences of being on a couch." (Pauline)
Myofascial Release (MFR) aims to free up restrictions within fascia, allowing it to become more fluid again, thereby supporting the body's cardiovascular, lymphatic and other self heal systems to relieve pain and tension.

Scientific research has shown that when the body is exposed to sustained heat and pressure (ie through the hands), elastin and collagen are released, but so is interleukin 8, an anti inflammatory agent.

MFR employs direct and indirect techniques. Indirect techniques, also known as 'cross hands' involve laying hands on skin, applying gentle pressure to feel for a barrier, and waiting for a release. Each hold can take 5-15 minutes depending on the body. This work takes time and patience! Direct techniques can employ fingers, fists and elbows to strip through fascia and soften tissue.

There is a strong emotional component to MFR, and it can free up emotional as well as physical restrictions, so do not be surprised if you feel 'stirred up' after a treatment.  This is all part of the body's release process. In some cases it may be helpful to consult a counsellor/talk therapist to work alongside the bodywork.

MFR can help with backache, headaches, digestive disorders, menstrual complaints, asthma and stress related conditions. It is particularly helpful in recovery from shock, accidents, trauma and chronic conditions.