Self Myofascial Release: Improve Mobility & Reduce Pain at Hillary Ann Movement

Practicing self-myofascial release with therapy balls for improved mobility and relaxation.

Our fascia, the connective tissue that holds our entire body together, is deeply intertwined with our nervous system. It plays a critical role in unlocking essential energy pathways that support our nervous system and optimize our body's innate healing powers.

With my self myofascial release workshops and classes you will learn self myofascial release and self massage techniques using therapy balls and other tools to help improve body awareness, alleviate pain, increase mobility, optimize performance, and regulate your nervous system. “Rolling” with these tools will hydrate and restore stuck sticky tissue leaving you and your body grounded, renewed, relaxed, with an instant increase in flexibility and range of motion. In this workshop you will develop a customized tool-kit of self-massage techniques to keep your body tuned up and feeling great from head to toe.

This type of work is ideal for any BODY. Whether you’re an athlete, recovering from an injury, dealing with stress, or spending too much time sitting, incorporating this technique into your routine can lead to profound physical and mental benefits.

What is Self-Myofascial Release (SMR)?

Self-myofascial release (SMR) is a self-massage technique that uses therapy balls (such as yoga tune-up balls, lacrosse balls, or other specialized massage balls) to target muscle knots, release tension, and improve mobility. The therapy balls apply sustained pressure to tight or overactive muscles, helping to break up adhesions in the fascia—the connective tissue surrounding muscles.

Benefits of SMR with Therapy Balls

1. Improved Mobility & Flexibility – Releases restrictions in muscles and fascia, leading to better range of motion.

2. Pain Relief & Recovery – Helps alleviate muscle soreness and chronic pain by increasing blood flow and reducing tension.

3. Stress Reduction & Relaxation – Stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting deep relaxation.

4. Mental Health Benefits – Reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression by releasing physical tension and encouraging mindfulness.

5. Posture Correction – Counteracts the effects of prolonged sitting and poor postural habits.

6. Improved Circulation & Lymphatic Drainage – Enhances blood flow and aids in the body's natural detoxification process.

Who Benefits from SMR?

• Athletes & Active Individuals – Enhances recovery, prevents injury, and improves performance by keeping muscles supple and balanced.

• Injury Recovery & Post-Surgery Patients – Assists in breaking down scar tissue, improving mobility, and reducing pain in a controlled, gentle way.

• Individuals with High Stress & Anxiety – On-the-go professionals, parents, and those in high-pressure environments can use therapy balls to release stored tension and calm the nervous system.

• People Who Are Sedentary Most of the Day – Office workers and those who sit for long periods can counteract stiffness, improve circulation, and relieve lower back, neck, and shoulder pain.

• Children to Older Adults – Gentle, adaptive techniques make SMR suitable for all ages, from kids (who need movement awareness) to seniors (who need joint health and flexibility).

Using therapy balls for SMR is a simple, accessible, and highly effective way to manage pain, improve movement, and support mental well-being.