What is fascia?
“The fascial system consists of the three-dimensional continuum of soft, collagen containing, loose and dense fibrous connective tissues that permeate the body. It incorporates elements such as adipose tissue, adventitiae and neurovascular sheaths, aponeuroses, deep and superficial fasciae, epineurium, joint capsules, ligaments, membranes, meninges, myofascial expansions, periostea, retinacula, septa, tendons, visceral fasciae, and all the intramuscular and intermuscular connective tissues including endo-/peri-/epimysium. The fascial system surrounds, interweaves between, and interpenetrates all organs, muscles, bones and nerve fibers, endowing the body with a functional structure, and providing an environment that enables all body systems to operate in an integrated manner.”
The in-between. The integration. Communication.
With an estimated 250 million nerve endings*, our fascia is sensitive stuff! (*R. Schleip, PhD, 2022)
With a tensile strength of 2000 pounds per square inch**, it’s strong, too! (**Katake, 1961)
What happens if we slow down? If we soften? If we have support?
If our fascia becomes dehydrated, injured, or if we experience disease, there can be an increase in stiffness and a reduction in mobility, often resulting in pain and/or dysfunction. Some bodies produce faulty collagen, a main building block of fascia, leading to connective tissue disorders. These can include but are not limited to Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes, Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder, and Marfan Syndrome.
Additionally – “research shows that emotional stress may exert significant influences on the expression of myofascial pain.” – Dr. Robert Schleip
Fascial research is a fascinating and constantly evolving area of study! Recognizing the continuity within our bodies can allow us to better care for our selves, each other and the world around us.
Meeting Your Body Where It’s At
Fascial bodywork means we listen in, adjusting contact as needed. Gentle tension and/or compression is applied to your body, meeting your tissue’s resistance. We pause, we wait, we breathe. We allow your body and nervous system the time and space to recognize what you need, and we adjust accordingly.
A light touch over longer periods helps to unwind the body, improve mobility, and reduce pain and inflammation. Contact is often static, and it is common for no oil or cream to be used during treatment. If oil or cream is used, options include jojoba oil and/or Biotone Pure Touch Organics Massage Creme. Please review ingredients for allergies/sensitivities.
Kinesiotape - Kinesiotaping is a supplement to hands-on care, and provides a myriad of benefits. This special kind of tape gently lifts the skin and allows for improved circulation, lymphatic drainage, and overall mobility through the underlying tissues. It can improve kinesthetic awareness and proprioception, and is not only beneficial for correcting postural imbalances, but may also enhance performance for athletes of all ages. While athletic tape is often used to stabilize and limit movement, kinesiotape allows for mobility without restricting function. Useful in all stages of healing and activity levels, kinesiotape can be beneficial to many individuals.
Current Offerings
In person sessions can include any combination of the following modalities.
*Yoga & SE® are also available virtually!
Fascial Bodywork - a gentle, slow, & supported blend of stillness and passive movement
Guasha - mindful 'scraping,' when more speed/depth is useful
Fire Cupping - negative pressure via glass cups, a 'pull' instead of 'push'
Yoga* - explorations of breath, alignment, and sensation through active and restorative poses, with discussion of yoga history and philosophy
Somatic Experiencing® (SE) explorations* - Sometimes being present in our bodies can feel overwhelming, and other times it can feel like total nothingness. SE gives us a framework to explore bite-sized pieces of sensation at a digestible pace.
I am currently a student enrolled in Somatic Experiencing International's professional program, and have completed the first four (of eight) modules.
