I haven’t posted a Friday Favorites in probably about two years, but today it’s back! It’s back because I had recently had an opportunity to try Fascial Stretch Therapy

I’m sure that you are shaking your head wondering what is Fascial Stretch Therapy. I was thinking the same thing when Ashley Brodeur of Active Lifestyle Fitness told me about this unique form of stretching.

We all know how important stretching is for us. But how many of you really take the time to stretch? I’m right there with you. I always say that I have to do it, but I NEVER do.

What is FST?
Fascial Stretch Therapy also is known as FST is a method of assisted stretching that focuses on the manipulation of the fascia. What’s fascia? Fascia is the connective tissue system of the body that penetrates through and wraps around muscles, nerves, and organs.

What Happens?
I began my session laying flat on a table listening to relaxing music. I will admit that the hardest thing for me was to relax and let Ashley move my muscles as she needed to. But after a few minutes, I was able to decompress and let her work her magic.

Ashley started lightly stretching my legs (I was hoping that this would make me taller). But, no luck there.

She then began to open up my hips, which felt amazing by the way. All of the stretching was not what we are used to with stretching. It was light pulling, yet felt effective. It was not painful in any way.

FST involves your entire body, from your legs and hamstrings to your glutes, arms, and neck.

The 50-minute session flew by. I definitely could have stayed there much longer.

The Benefits
FST is pain-free. I can personally say that nothing hurt when Ashley performed it on me. FST is said to help reduce pain and stress. It also said to improve sleep, mobility, and posture. (All of these I need). This type of stretching is also known to improve the mobility of your muscles and fascia.

The Findings
Ashley has gone through a rigorous training program and knows exactly what to look for when she is performing FST. After your first session, she will be able to tell you what is tight, off balance or needs improvement. She says that has seen people who don’t need much stretching at all and some who should get the therapy every day.

In my case, she found some tightness in my left should which she was able to work out. My glutes were also tight, but nothing out of the ordinary.

My Results
I have a very difficult time sleeping and the night that I had FST done, I found that I fell asleep much faster than the average night. I also felt more relaxed throughout the day.

Would I do it Again?
Absolutely! The benefits are amazing and to spend 50 minutes relaxing while knowing that you are helping your muscles is a win-win. I highly recommend that you try FST with Ashley. For more information go to Activelifestyle.com.

And if you try it, let me know what you thought about it!

Cheers to the weekend!