Have you noticed the term “fascia” being talked about in health care? I am thrilled that the desire to learn about the fascial system is growing within the community. I have pulled together some helpful resources to help you learn more about the fascial system, including information about a healing approach called Myofascial Release, or MFR.
The journey of discovering my own fascial system started in 2018 following massage therapy school. I attended my first Myofascial Release session with a therapist trained in the John F. Barnes MFR approach. My curiosity about this modality led me to a new world of understanding. I was experiencing back pain that was corrected after my treatment sessions. To my surprise, this led my body into a deep healing journey. Through this treatment, I have been able to help my body break out of old fascial patterns and into a new paradigm. MFR gives me the ability to connect to not only my physical body but to my energetic body as well.
So What is Fascia and What is its Function?
Fascia is a specialized system of the body that appears like a spider web. Fascia is a very densely woven covering that is a part of every muscle, bone, nerve, artery, and vein. It also integrates all of the internal organs.
According to the National Library of Medicine, “Normal movement of the body is allowed because of the presence of the fascial tissues and their inseparable interconnection, which allow the sliding of the muscular structure, the sliding of nerves and vessels between contractile fields and joints, and the ability of all organs to slide and move with each other as influenced by the position of the body.”
When there is impact/trauma to the body, this system creates fascial holding patterns that were created at the time of the trauma. Through this pattern of resistance, there is a lack of movement in the fascial structure. The body continues to function in the trauma-holding pattern long after the event. Over time it can cause pain and dysfunction in mechanical and emotional ways within the fascial system.
Some examples of trauma include surgeries, car accidents, sports injuries, and even as far back as birth trauma.
What is Myofascial Release and How Can It Help?
MFR is a hands-on therapy performed directly on skin without oils, creams, or machinery. This enables the therapist to accurately detect fascial restriction and apply the appropriate amount of sustained pressure to facilitate release of the fascia. MFR therapists use long, sustained holds (five minutes or more) to assist the fascial system to release restrictions. This helps relieve symptoms of pain and dysfunction and also helps improve mobility.
My own healing experiences with Myofascial Release ignited my desire to bring this healing modality to others. I have studied the John Barnes method extensively – attending workshops with John Barnes and honing my skills with clients over the years. It gives me great joy to watch my clients experience the same healing results that MFR provided me!
Are you curious about how MFR could help you? I invite you to reach out or book a session to experience MFR for yourself!
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