Does body work, work?

My answer to: Is myofascial relief overhyped? 

Myofascial Release is generally considered safe and effective for most people, but it can only do one thing, increase circulation to parts of the body for a short period of time. This is also true about massage or any other any body work therapy.  
Most people seek out these therapies, because they are unaware that the tightness and pain in their bodies are caused by the tension created by their reaction to stress, as well as their own negative emotions. This type of pain has many names, but I call it Tension Based Pain, because it is easy to understand. 

Tension Based Pain is different than pain that may be caused by trauma or an organic cause such as infection, cancer, etc.

There are many simple things that we can do to overcome our reaction to stress and the pain or chronic pain that often follows, such as:

* Deep relaxation
* Progressive relaxation
* Meditation
* Breathing exercises
* Therapy
* Changes to lifestyle

Is Myofascial Release worth the hype? It’s hard to say, as some people find it very helpful, while others could take it or leave it.

This post originally appeared on Quora.com

#backpain #lowbackpain #neckpain #shoulderpain #sciatica #chronicsciatica #mindbody #chronicneckpain #headache #chronicpain #tensionbasedpain  #MyofascialRelease #bodywork #mind-body #stress #effectsofstress