Myofascial Massage
What is Myofascial Massage?
Myofascial Massage is a satisfying and relaxing therapeutic massage which aims to balance and realign the fascial network in the body. It focuses on relieving tension in localised areas and reconnecting them to the whole body. During massage, advanced bodywork methods such as neuromuscular technique (NMT) and muscle energy technique (MET) are used to free up adhered connective tissue, reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
What should you expect?
A range of hands-on techniques from slow, deep and light stretching strokes, to constant pressure are used by the therapist to lengthen and realign the body’s connective tissue. During the treatment you may be asked to focus on your breathing or to move a part of your body.
Who is it for?
People of all ages and backgrounds can benefit, from children to the elderly, whether it’s to alleviate chronic pain or fatigue, undo the stresses caused by a sedentary lifestyle, rehabilitate after an injury, or to help athletes achieve their maximum potential.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of Myofascial Massage include a boost to the immune system, improved circulation, a reduction in pain and tension, an improvement in joint mobility and stability, improved breathing, sleep and sense of wellbeing.
What is fascia?
Fascia is a three dimensional web of a connective tissue fibres, primarily made up of collagen and elastin, that forms sheets or bands beneath the skin, surrounding and protecting the tissues of the body including muscle, bone and organs. The tensile fibres are strong and flexible and are surrounded by a viscous fluid called ground substance which allows the connective tissue to slide and glide between underlying structures. The fibres make up an elastic container which stabilises, protects, encloses and separates muscles and internal organs including the lungs, heart, brain and spinal column.
Fascia is highly adaptable and when regularly put under increasing physiological strains it changes its architectural properties to meet the increasing demand. This adaptability is also what makes manipulating the fascia using Stuctural Integration and Myofascial Massage so effective in restoring natural alignment. Recent scientific studies recognise the fundamental role fascia plays in movement such as proprioception, stabilisation and force transmission. It is a tensegrity model where tension and resistance rely on each other for stability and function. Fascia has the same capability to contract and relax as muscle and it plays a role in joint mobility and stability.
For more information on research into fascia visit www.fasciaresearch.de
"Simply one of the best massages I’ve ever had. Maria understands the body in depth and provides an exceptional massage. A world class massage, taking you away from stresses and to a place where inner peace can be found.”
Paul L. Palendjlan