Anatomy Trains

As we continue to apply our knowledge of the Anatomy Trains myofascial meridians, that which we discovered through Manual Therapy, to the world in which we live and Movement Therapy, we are gaining a more precise understanding of why and how things like yoga, Pilates, dance and other forms of physical therapy can have such a profound impact on our physical being. When we consider the whole length of each of these meridians during movement, we have the ability to safely and optimally extend the range of motion and improve our physical performance. Of course, differences will vary from person to person, but this contributes to what we are now calling Fascial Fitness.

I frequently receive questions from graduate students in physical therapy, kinesiology and other disciplines about Anatomy Trains and Fascia. One such student from the American College of NeuroEnergetic Kinesiology recently wrote to me to inquire about the range of motion for the Fascia (Anatomy) Trains for a course they are preparing. They use Advanced Acu Touch on Acupuncture Points, and they have already watched several of the Anatomy Trains DVDs. The student wanted to know if we have specific movements for each of the Anatomy Trains lines that will activate them for use in their work. They were looking specifically for movements relating to each line and the actual range of motion to activate them, especially in the Deep Front Line.

I responded that in chapter 10 of the book, Anatomy Trains: Myofascial Meridians for Manual and Movement Therapists, we use forward bends to test, stretch, and activate the Superficial Back Line, backbends for the Superficial Front Line, side bends for the Lateral Lines, twists for the Spiral Lines, as well as for the Arm Lines and Functional Lines.

The Deep Front Line is more difficult to reach. For the lowest part, we recommend getting the heel down during hip and dorsiflexion, as in Down Dog, or actively bringing the medial arch of the foot to the top of the thigh while sitting and dragging the heel up the floor toward the hip. We also recommend medially and laterally rotating the thighs (femurs) in strong hip flexion, again, as in Down Dog, or in hip hyperextension such as a mild backbend, like at the start of sun salutations. We also recommend movements to open the pelvic floor and awaken the front of the spine – this is less what you do, and more how you do it. And finally, to open the top of the front of the neck: look over your shoulder until you can see your heels, then breathe deeply and feel the anterior scalenes stretch. The jaw likes yawning.

As with any program, repetition is key, as is working within your comfort zone so as not to cause injury. This may vary significantly from person to person. It is also worth noting that moving in a smooth, fluid-like fashion, and in multiple directions – not just in single-directional planes – will have a greater affect on the fascia than the old-fashioned hurky-jerkey movements of weightlifting and certain aerobic exercises. While there may be many ways to address, stretch and move each individual myofascial meridian, not one of these works on its own, just as no single muscle works on its own!

I am always thrilled to see the far-reaching applications and implications of the work we have done to collectively share our understanding of the human body. Thank you, all, for your continued interest in Anatomy Trains!