Mplus Bodyworks

07/25/2017

There are a number of reasons we develop habits of chronic muscle tension but one commonly referenced is mental STRESS. Two thoughts on the dynamics of this:

1) Physically tensing our muscles gives us the sensation of actually DOING something about a stressor - the fight or flight instinct kicking in without real outlet.

2) While it's understood that mental stress can lead to chronic muscle tension, IT IS JUST AS COMMON THAT CHRONIC MUSCLE TENSION LEADS TO FEELINGS OF STRESS! Adjust the tension, remove the stress.

06/09/2017

A new client recently mentioned she was surprised when her PT told her she needed to start strengthening her core since she is always aware of engaging her core when in Pilates and Barre classes. I asked if she has been aware of engaging her core outside of class - when leaning back to wash hair in shower, tie shoes, when walking, even while sitting - basically to stabilize every movement all day! Training in right positioning and muscle use is not only for making that lift in the gym or getting through a demanding core workout class.

06/03/2017

As someone who tends toward developing at least 10 new habits at any given time, I was somewhat intrigued by this concept of 1-at-a-time. http://tim.blog/2009/01/07/the-power-of-less-leo-babauta-zen-habits/amp/

Simple is beautiful (Photo: Razzziel) To learn a skill, I often look — not for the best in the world — but for people who’ve made the greatest progress in the shortest period of t…

04/09/2017

Train Everyday. All Day. Life is the Game.

04/09/2017

Bodywork is a set of tools for maintaining & repairing the body. I am continually amazed by the effects of using these tools. We are made for movement. A body made for movement requires maintenance and adjustment to continue performing optimally. This work involves precise manipulation of soft tissue including muscle and connective tissue: fascia, tendons, ligaments. It is a way to realign the body taking pressure off joints, nerves, vessels, organs. Bodywork is also about the basic reduction of unnecessary muscle tension. Just as when we are stressed we tense up muscles, when our muscles are under tension we undoubtedly feel more stressed. The endorphins that are triggered are a nice bonus too!

We adapt to the demands placed on the body and the muscle tension needed to shift into and sustain any position required of us throughout the day. What commonly happens is we are so good at adapting that if becomes difficult to unconsciously or even consciously let go of our muscles after use. When muscles are active they are in a shortened, hardened state. When chronically running around with shortened, hardened muscles there is excessive pulling on the joints and compression of nerves and likelihood of strains or tears.

My style is about bringing conscious awareness to locked-up muscles and connective tissue largely through techniques such as Myofascial Release, Trigger Point Release & Deep Tissue work but also through drawing people's attention to basic mechanical concepts and systems of the body. It is also about encouraging fluidity and efficiency of movement, conservation of energy and the added strength and agility that comes from freeing up muscles and surrounding tissue.