What is fascia and how to care for it naturally?

Often, when we feel stiffness or pain, we put it down to a problem with our muscles or joints, but it could be a problem with the fascia. However, it could be a problem with the fascia. Have you heard of this concept?

In this article, we explain what fascia is, why it is important to understand its functions and how you can protect it naturally to avoid fascia-related problems.

What is fascia?

Fascia is a three-dimensional network or mesh of connective tissue that extends throughout the body. It could be said to be a second skin. It is made up of a group of layers composed mainly of collagen that extends uninterruptedly throughout the body to envelop muscles, joints, bones, organs, nerves, blood vessels…

In other words, it is the first element of what is known as the connective tissue that binds all the elements of the body together.

Among its components – in addition to collagen, which we have already noted is the main component – are elastin and hyaluronic acid.

The fascia is divided into:

• Myofascial or muscular: that which involves the muscles.
• Viscerofascia or visceral: supports the internal organs.
• Dural system: responsible for enveloping the central and peripheral nervous system.
• Subcutaneous fascia: located in the dermis or skin.

The functions of the fascia

We can say that fascia is responsible for shaping the body and keeping us upright. Our organs, muscles, skin and blood vessels require this membranous layer for the musculoskeletal system to maintain position. The main task of the fascia is to help the body function as a unit.

Among other competences, it is also responsible for:

• Maintain muscle tone: the fascial system facilitates the work of the muscles by allowing them to glide over each other. The fascia allows the locomotor apparatus to act as a unit.
• Cushioning impacts: in addition, in case of bruising or pus, the fascia forms a layer that does not allow these substances to be diverted to other areas.
• Balancing the posture: thanks to the elasticity of the fascia and the fact that it covers all body structures, it gives support and balance to the posture.
• Support and suspension: support for body structures and organs.
• Proprioception: that is to say, it collaborates with our brain’s capacity to know the exact position of every one of our body structures.
• Nourish the tissue: the fascial system is the source of a large part of the capillaries responsible for nourishing the surrounding tissues.
• Maintaining body temperature: the fascia helps in the sweating process.
• Supporting the immune system: thanks to the immune cells it possesses.
• Protect organs and muscles: it acts as a first barrier against impacts by acting as a great shock absorber. This function is due to proteoglycans, which give the fascia a viscoelastic consistency.

How fascia influences our well-being and how to determine if it should be treated

Fascia influences agility and fitness and is therefore an important factor in our well-being. It can positively influence our physical and mental balance.

When we are in good health, the fascia is hydrated, elastic and mobile. When it loses hydration, flexibility is reduced, which compromises body movement and leads to tension and pain. This increases the risk of injury.

Several factors cause a lack of flexibility in the fascia:

• Age.
• Poor postural hygiene.
• Dehydration can cause the fascia to stick together. If you think this is the case, you can read more about the importance of hydration in the body.
• Lack of exercise.
• Chronic stress and lack of sleep.
• A poor diet makes the connective tissue of the fascia gelatinous.

Lack of flexibility in the fascia has consequences for muscles and organs. The circulation of blood vessels can also be affected, as well as the communication between cells.

At the muscle level, you can tell a fascia problem because the pain improves with movement, which is not the case with muscle injuries.

How to protect the fascia

Taking the best care of your fascia involves several healthy habits. These are the most important ones:

• As we have already seen, it is essential to stay hydrated. If we think of the fascia as a big sponge, it stands to reason that the more we drink, the more elasticity the fascia will have. It is therefore very useful for injuries.
• Don’t stop exercising. A sedentary lifestyle causes the fascia to lose its elasticity and strength. To avoid stiffness it is important to carry out strength and cardiovascular exercise routines throughout the week. The fascia needs to stretch before and after physical activity.
• Include in your weekly routine a stretching session with the foam roller, specially designed to work the fascia.
• See a myofascial specialist if you think you have fascia problems. A specialist can tell you how to get a myofascial massage or exercise routine that will benefit you.

On the other hand, in addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it is a good idea to supplement the diet with collagen and trace elements that favour its production, such as vitamins C and E and silicon.

We recommend you:

• Living Silica Collagen Booster combines two types of organic silicon – orthosilicic acid and monomethylsilanotriol – which increases collagen naturally and also strengthens and repairs hair and nails, strengthens bones and joints and revitalises the appearance of the dermis. If you prefer the liquid form, this is your supplement to promote the formation of collagen in your body and naturally strengthen the fascia.
• Living Silica Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides, in this case, the presentation is in powder form and has a rich vanilla aroma. It is ideal for mixing with juice, water or to prepare a smoothie. Taking collagen in peptide form not only has a regenerative and anti-ageing action, but it will also help you feel better by nourishing and regenerating tissues such as joints, bones and skin.
• Living Silica Collagen Booster 60 capsules. This presentation is perfect when you are away from home for a few days and don’t want to take the liquid bottle with you.

As you can see, several options allow you to take care of your fascia in a natural way. Improving and regenerating tissues will not only make you feel better physically but will also have an impact on your mental wellbeing.