Fascinating Fascia

​Fascia is one of the least understood tissues of the body. However, recently researchers have published information on just how important fascia is. It is the elastic connective tissue that runs throughout our whole body, like a second, deeper layer of skin. It connects the sole of your foot all the way up to the back of your head and everything in between! It not only effects the range of motion in joints but also helps in preventing injuries and the healing process afterwards. The facial system is similar to the musculoskeletal system in that it changes overtime with repeated stress and injury. Inactivity can cause water to build up around the fascia and for it to become disorganized. This disorganization causes the fibers to become chaotic, lose its elasticity and eventually function can decrease or be completely lost. This not only causes problems for that specific area where the fascia is having issues but throughout the rest of the body since it is all connected. Pilates, being that it is a full body workout, has been shown to be a great way to prevent these fascia problems from developing. The spring resistance used in Pilates relates closely to elastic properties of fascia and the types of movements and stretches done provide what fascia really needs to be healthy! The healthier your fascia the better you feel!