Myofascial refers to "myo" (muscle) + "fascia" (soft tissue). The fascia is a vast web of interconnected soft tissue that extends from head to toe and envelops all muscle, bone, nerves, organs, and blood vessels in the body; its network extends from the superficial fascia just below the skin to the dural fascia covering the brain and spinal cord. It is vital for the healthy functioning of every cell within the body, and serves as a pivotal interface between the body and the mind.

Fascial restrictions impede vital transmission of information from cell to cell; this disruption of communication leads to disease and abnormal cell development as in cancer. The fascia constricts to protect the body from physical or emotional threat (e.g., surgery, injury, chronic stress, poor posture, disease); this initial response is an integral part of the body's survival mechanism. If, however, the body forgets to "turn off the alarm" once the threat has subsided, the fascia remains stuck in emergency mode, and normal cell function is impaired. Since the fascia is one continuous circuit, a restriction in one area frequently affects distant regions of the body as well. Myofascial restrictions can cause pervasive symptoms such as pain, misalignment, stiffness, nerve impingement, impaired circulation and digestion, anxiety, agitation, and depression.

Myofascial Release Therapy involves gentle, sustained pressure and stretching to interrupt the tissues' dysfunctional cycle and to allow release of painful holding patterns; sustained pressure is the key to achieving long-term results by, in essence, re-wiring the fascia. In the process, memories, emotions, and belief systems that had obstructed healing rise to awareness and can be released as well. Both the body and the mind are rebalanced, and healing occurs.

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