In my group classes as well as with my individual clients, I talk a an awful lot about tensegrity.   Basically – we need it!

We all know that tissue that is too tight is unhealthy.  But, what many people fail to realize is that when tissue is too “loose,” it’s also unhealthy.  We MUST have proper tensegrity in our bodies in order to operate properly and efficiently.  Without some tension, we would simply flop all over the place and fall apart (which sometimes people feel like is the case!)  And, with too much tension, we ache and strain, etc.

That’s why we MELT!!!

My MELTing Mentor explains tensegrity:

What’s a fibroblast? 

Okay, when it comes to connective tissue I’m full of answers. Though many would make a layperson’s eyes roll into the back of their skull, it’s taken me time to do my best to simplify what’s been burned into my brain, causing me to become a Somanaut or inner explorer of the body. Talking about fibroblasts is technical but here’s as simple an idea as I can offer for a blog…

So what’s a fibroblast? There are a number of cells found within our connective tissue system that compose the “fascial network”. A fibroblast is found specifically within the fascial fabric and is the primary cell of connective tissue. They are a reactive cell, adapting and morphing to tensional changes and movement. Each cell provides what’s known as “tensegrity” or architectural support to our entire body. The fibroblasts cytoskeleton is able to transmit forces from cell to cell (intercellular space) and within the cell (intracellular space) and resist distortion – so long as the cells are adequately hydrated. Mechanical forces can influence the fibroblasts to modify their physical and chemical properties so if adequate hydration is absent, distortion of fibroblasts causes a bit of a mess in the architectural integrity of the entire body. The little microtubules and microfilaments in the intracellular system become damaged causing the ultimate change in the fibroblasts integrity.

Okay so none of that is really layman talk. So think of it this way – billions of fibroblasts (along with other cells like mast cells, adipose cells, macrophages and fibers like collagen, elastin, and reticular fibers) create an amazing framework for our blood, bones, nerves, organs, and every other element we can define to exist in. The fibroblasts are responsible for producing the fluids that ultimately create the Extra Cellular Matrix (ECM) or architectural framework that cells and fibers and structures exist in. If fluid decreases (which is caused daily by our general habits, postures, nutrition, and lifestyle) and we don’t actively partake in both adequately hydrating ourselves and stimulating the fibroblasts in a gentle, organized way (like we do with MELT) adhesions, stagnation, and ultimately fixation and a loss of space occurs in all of the spaces of our body like joints and the abdominal and throat region.

Bottom line, our connective tissue matrix is a complex structure with diverse functions. The entire molecular continuum is a tensegrity system reliant upon fibroblast integrity and responsiveness. The ability of cells to adopt various shapes and carry out coordinated movements within the matrix is inherently linked to the fluid state of the ECM and the ability of fibroblasts to continuously produce and transfer fluids from cell to cell.

Once again, drinking water consistently throughout the day, eating water filled foods, daily whole-body movement and of course MELTing helps to keep our fibroblasts in good tone. Stay curious on how to keep these cells healthy. More to come on this topic and other elements of our connective tissue system!