The Ergonomic Work Environment: Fostering Workplace Wellness with Myofascial Release

It’s no secret that movement is essential to improving mobility and relieving tension in your body. This is especially true when you work a sedentary office job. However, practicing yoga or exercising a few days after work may not be enough to relieve the stress and tightness accumulated throughout the workday.?

According to pain-free movement specialist Pooja Virani, sitting at a desk for prolonged periods can hinder your body’s mobility. In fact, the more time we spend at our desks, the more elasticity we lose in our spine. But myofascial release, in combination with an active practice, is a deeply supportive technique that can effectively remove pain and reduce stress.

What is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial release is a form of massage that focuses on the fascia, the connective tissue between muscles. Through a series of repetitive exercises and massage techniques, you can melt contracted or frozen muscles and bring more ease of movement to your body. Myofascial release allows you to access deeper parts of the musculature that stretching alone cannot reach. It also improves lymphatic circulation, increases blood flow, soothes the nervous system, and enhances muscle elasticity. This makes it an excellent counterpart to your fitness routine, along with being a loving act of self-care after work.?

A Five-Minute Practice for Sit-down Workers

Here’s an example: Lay out your yoga mat and experiment with this myofascial release technique to show your body some love. You’ll need:

• A yoga mat
• Tennis ball
• Your breath

After a few warm-up movements, grab your tennis ball and lay belly-down on your yoga mat. Take a deep breath, and then support your body weight using your feet, elbows, and knees in a plank position. Place your ball under either side of your hip and sink down into the ball, breathing deeply throughout. Roll over the ball to massage your hip flexors, never going higher than the bony part of your hips. Take another breath and repeat on the other side. Emotions may arise, so use your breath to ride the wave and relax into the moment. This practice should only take about five minutes.

Lean Into a Trusted Myofascial Release Specialist?

Juice up your spine and joints by experiencing the effects of myofascial release live with Pooja.

Omega is hosting trainer Pooja and the Omega community Wednesday, January 17, from 7:00-8:30 PM ET for a 90-minute myofascial release practice. This class takes place online with the Omega Teacher’s Studio, allowing you to practice from the comfort of your own home. For registered participants, Pooja’s class is available on-demand until March 17, so you can return to this practice at any time. Register today .