Fascia: according to Tom Myers
Introduction
Welcome to a deep dive into the general concept of fascia and the importance of understanding its impact on our daily lives. By exploring the intricacies of fascia, we can gain insights into how this essential component of the body plays a crucial role in our overall well-being.
Fascia can be defined as the body’s fabric or glue that holds us together. It is situated between all the other cells in the body. As we examine the various systems in the body, such as the nervous system, bones, organs, and more, we can see that all of these cells are encompassed within the fascial network. Therefore, fascia is not only the body’s fabric and glue but also the context for all physiological activity.
Historically, fascia has been overlooked because it was regarded merely as an environment. However, it is now being recognized as a system in its own right. In multicellular organisms, there is a need for a structure that holds everything together. Some cells take on this responsibility by producing fibers and glue, which combine with the water between cells to create the fascial network.
Fibers and glue in between the cells of the fascia
In summary, fascia is a crucial component of the body that provides support, context, and structure for all other cells and systems. Gaining an understanding of fascia allows us to appreciate its role in our daily lives and overall well-being.
Fascial Organization
Fascia can be examined at various levels, from its largest form to its smallest components. In its largest form, fascia can be observed in structures such as the fascia lata that surrounds the leg and the femur. These large sheets are structural elements that provide support for the body and are part of the myofascial and musculoskeletal systems.
Fascial Net Plastination Project – Fascia Lata of leg with femur in the middle
However, the fascial context extends to much smaller scales, such as between individual muscles and muscle cells. For instance, the endomysium is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds individual muscle fibers, providing a coating around each cell. This coating has a distinct double lattice arrangement, which allows the muscle to stretch on one side and contract on the other.
Photo micrograph the endomysium surrounding the individual muscle fibres
The proper functioning of fascia in the body relies on its ability to move without getting locked up. It is important to note that fascia’s arrangement is not always in the same direction as the muscles, which allows for contraction and stretching. Issues may arise when fascia becomes stuck in contracted or stretched positions, or when it is not subjected to any load, causing it to lose its organized structure.
When engaging in bodywork, yoga, or physical training, it is crucial to consider the fascia’s response to loading and how it adapts over time. While the brain and muscles can adjust relatively quickly, the fascia takes longer to adapt. This slow adaptation process makes it important to approach physical activities with a long-term commitment, rather than expecting rapid results, to avoid potential injuries.
If there’s one thing important to remember, it’s that “the body responds to demand”
In summary, fascia plays a vital role in the body’s structural organization and function, responding to mechanical loads and adapting over time. Ensuring proper loading and movement can help maintain the fascia’s organization and support overall well-being.
Start your journey to structural well being with a comprehensive 90 minute Adaptive Bodywork Session or make it a project with a 3, 6 or 12-series.
Together we’ll explore what’s holding you back.
Together, we’ll set you on a path to a more balanced and integrated life.
Removing Pain from the Human body by Adaptively Reconfiguring the Connective Tissue Support System…
Join next week for:
more…
Have you got questions?
For more information visit us at: www.adaptivebodywork.com
Are you ready to get started?
Start your journey to structural well being with a comprehensive 90 minute Adaptive Bodywork Session or make it a project with a 3, 6 or 12-series.
Together we’ll explore what’s holding you back.
Together, we’ll set you on a path to a more balanced and integrated life.
3167 St-Catherine St., East
Montreal, Quebec, H1W 2C4, Canada
1-514-830-5444
info@adaptivebodywork.com
