Prolonging Treatments Through Stretches

My goal is to put length back into tightened tissue. Each stretch will be performed slowly with 3 to 5 deep breaths, filling the lungs as much as possible and letting each out slowly.

When we engage the tissue we want to stop in the stretch at the point of the barrier. This will be felt by an increase in tightness, possibly burning in the tissue, and maybe some pain. Keep the pain level low enough that you can relax through it. Stop at this point and allow yourself to sink into the stretch, think of the tightness in the tissue as becoming like taffy. As you sink into the stretch and continue to breathe deeply you will feel the tissue let go and have a release in tightness. At this time, depending on the stretch, you can move gently to increase the stretch until you feel the barrier again. This will create a release through the layers of muscles that will last longer.

Be aware if you notice that you are bracing against or tensing- modify your stretch so that you can sink into it. When we stretch fascia it should be gentle. Your job is not to just get through the stretches, but to create a good quality stretch. Break up your stretch time- some in the AM, some in the PM, and try to find a time when you are not rushed. I like to do them at the end of the day in my bedroom with the door closed or before the family is up in the morning.