Myofascial release

A super short blog to share the wealth of something that has helped my acid reflux!

Indulge me on a little story! My wonderful mother-in-law who gives so much love and support to all living creatures on this earth shared a webinar with me about myofascial release for dogs in pain. It was really interesting and realising how our poor best friends try so hard to be happy for us all the time whether they are in pain on not. Whilst watching this webinar I thought urgh I’m in so much pain, my acid reflux is really effecting me right now.

What if this could help my pain?

Cue the google doctor extraordinaire!

If I could find a YouTube video on myofascial release for the abdominal muscles, may be just may be it wold help release the tension on my stomach contributing to acid reflux. After all anxiety and stress can be felt in your gut, it would make sense that tension may be held there and would need releasing!

Again this gave me something tangible to help effect the root cause. I also then began to remember a few session with the amazing Renata who through massage has helped me with various sports injuries but also managing the muscular tension effects of stress and anxiety. One week she did an abdominal massage. I had totally forgotten how helpful it was!

So my YouTube search began and I found a few that I could do, without props (eek) that may make a difference. Now clearly I am not a doctor or a physio or masseuse, but I followed the instructions being mindful of the safety precautions and

Wow!!! What a difference!!!

Now who knows whether it was the relaxing nature, the release of abdominal tension, the reduction in anxiety and stress from deep breathing and massage or all of the above but it definitely had positive effects on my acid reflux. Clearly the days I eat something off the DON’T EAT THAT list no amount of belly pummelling will help. But if I’ve been good with diet then it definitely helps!

Myofascial release options:

• See a professional like Renata
• Self- myofascial release with props
• I found this useful for technique
• Abdominal massage helped too!

There are loads on YouTube. Find one that suits you. Remember to consultant a physician or you GP to ensure this would be safe for you.

Good luck!

Feature image: Todd Kent