Today I won’t lose many words – because I want to move you!
Well-being does not only depend on mental calmness but also on relaxation in the body. Thereby the mind influences the body – and vice versa.
If we do not move enough or are under constant stress, this tension is reflected in the body.
When talking about tension, we often think of the muscles first – but it has been found that fascias can also be the source for muscle and back pain.
Fascias are soft tissue components of our connective tissue. Their nutrient supply functions via the lymphatic fluid, which also transports metabolic products. Smooth fascias therefore not only ensure better elasticity in the body but also have a positive effect on our metabolism. They have different functions: Some “fasten” our organs; fascias located under the epidermis serve as a kind of protective buffer; and the fascias that surround the muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments and capsules provide protection and stability. In short: Fascias hold the individual parts of our body together and ensure that we stay in shape 😉 (The meat eaters among you may know this white, thin fibrous net over the muscle meat – that’s fascias!)
If there is a lack of exercise, fascias can harden or become sticky due to insufficient nutrient exchange and lack of lymphatic fluid removal. This can lead to limited muscle function and increased sensitivity to pain.
To keep our fascias functional and healthy, we can train them – similar to muscles. Unlike muscle training, however, fascial training is not about building up but about stretching and maintaining flexibility.
The pressure exerted when training with the fascia roll stimulates the supply of fresh lymphatic fluid (similar to a sponge, squeezed and then put in water). But stretching exercises and massages can also support and train the function of the fascia.
The video link below this article shows a nice combination of stretching exercises (facial flow).
And now get on the mat – and always stay flexible!