Your article(The secret of the fascia: how it affects your health – and should you loosen it with a foam roller?, November 24) was instructive. In addition to the movement and exercise approaches you've highlighted, the Fascia Research Group at the University of Ulm in Germany, led by Professor Robert Schleip, is researching a wide range of strategies for maintaining fascial health. Fascia research is still in its infancy, but its implications for healthcare are significant. Back in 2015, a conference at Harvard Medical School explored the connection between fascia, acupuncture and cancer; That lectures remain accessible online and highlight how much we need to understand about the role of fascia in medicine.
Chiropractors have long recognized the importance of working with fascia. Andrew Taylor Still, the founder of osteopathy, has emphasized its importance, and new approaches such as the Bowen technique aim to improve hydration, proprioception and flexibility by gently but directly targeting the fascia. One of the least appreciated aspects of the fascia is its extreme sensitivity: it provides constant feedback loop with the central and autonomic nervous systemsconstantly responding to internal and external stimuli.
Often it is the gentler therapeutic modalities, such as the Bowen Technique, the Feldenkrais Method or slower forms of yoga, that have the greatest impact on this remarkable network that underlies the healthy functioning of the entire body.
John Wilkes
Compton Dundon, Somerset
I was glad to read your recent article about the body's fascial network. As a teacher of yin yoga, a style based on fascial stretching, I find this topic particularly interesting. Yin yoga uses a series of deep stretches designed according to traditional Chinese medicine meridians, energy pathways that connect important organs throughout the body.
In our practice, we use a yoga mat, props, and supports to work with gravity to create a deep stretch. The stillness is then maintained for a long period of time, usually three to five minutes, allowing the body to fully release tension and surrender.
The benefits of this practice are significant. During deep rest while stretching and fixing the mind, the nervous system switches to parasympathetic mode (rest and digestion). This allows the body and mind to truly rest and begin to regenerate. Moreover, by training our body and mind to sit with mild discomfort, mindfully and with support, we develop a sense of trust.
Long-term results include a noticeable reduction in chronic pain, tension and stiffness. This approach makes yin yoga very effective and suitable for all levels of experience.
Rachel Perry
Rugby, Warwickshire
I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia at 21, 20 years ago. I tried all the therapeutic and pharmaceutical treatments without much success until I started treating the fascia instead of the muscles. The massage left me with bruises. Osteopathy would help, but only for a few hours. The turning point for me was the series Rolfing sessions. It permanently changed some of the fascia around my trigger points. I now undergo myofascial release sessions from time to time when my pain gets worse. The effect of each session lasts for weeks. I also added specific stretches to stretch and warm up the fascia, not the muscles themselves. Regular reformer Pilates classes keep the fascia flexible. The memory foam mattress also helps my fascia not feel stiff and “crunchy” in the morning. I hope this helps anyone struggling with fibro pain.
Maxine Lewis
Auckland, New Zealand
Joel Snape's article does not mention that traditional acupuncture is based on subtle flows of energy through the fascia. A network of meridians and points is located within the fascia. Treatment of acupuncture points affects the entire system since the fascia is one continuous “organ.” As Joel says, “we” (Western researchers) have just stopped throwing away the fascia and there is still a lot of research to be done. I have been practicing traditional acupuncture for 34 years and understand that most people are not aware of the existence of fascia.
The most common experience patients report after acupuncture treatment is deep relaxation and a feeling of reconnection with their entire being. We need this more than ever.
Teja Entwistle
Pentrath, AngleseyHello beauty
