Do you have persistent muscle tension that never goes away? Would you like it to disappear if it didn't have to be there? Sometimes we carry tension for so long that it becomes a part of us. We forget about it until a massage therapist presses on it, and then, "ohhhh," we recognize it. It wasn't gone; we had simply ignored it. The massage revealed it.
What is Muscle Tension?
Muscle tension occurs when muscle fibers contract excessively and for prolonged periods, often in response to physical, emotional, or psychological stress. This contraction involves two key proteins: actin and myosin. These proteins interact to create movement by sliding past each other, allowing muscles to contract and relax. However, when there is a contracture, the muscle fibers remain in a contracted position, leading to a continuous expenditure of energy to maintain this contraction.
This energy expenditure is "useless" because it does not contribute to productive movement or active bodily function. On the contrary, it can cause pain, reduced mobility, and a diminished quality of life. Muscle tension is the body's way of protecting itself, but when it persists, it can affect neighboring joints and tendons, causing a chain of imbalances and pain throughout the body.
We often think we don't want this tension, but in reality, it can also reassure us, like a form of protection. It gives rigidity to our body, without which we might fear collapsing. Without the ability to maintain controlled tension, we couldn't stand up, grasp an object, or lift a child to hold in our arms.
It is a game of contractions and relaxations that, in a perfect choreography, creates movement. The expression of life.
The Impacts of Muscle Contractions
Relentless contraction blocks or limits the movement and possibilities of our body. Sometimes, movement must occur at all costs. In these cases, it is the tendons and joints that become fatigued and injured.
We are not doomed to live with this tension. However, the older it is, the longer it may take to release it. There is a physical dimension, where massage can release tension, and a psychological dimension, where the person must embrace the release, as it can be destabilizing. Hidden emotions may emerge during the release. While the release can promise a "new self," the underlying emotions can be so terrifying that the tension is unconsciously reactivated to avoid facing them.
The Role of Emotions in Muscle Release
An emotion may arise during a massage therapy session. This is normal; it is even a beautiful expression of humanity. If this emotion is too intense or uncomfortable, it is helpful to address it with a psychologist, a counselor, or any trusted person who can help process it. This allows the emotion to flow freely in the body without getting stuck.
But don't worry, there isn't necessarily an emotion hidden under every tension.
Reeducation After Release
After a long period of tension, the newly relaxed muscle will need reeducation. The constantly tense muscle is "trained" to remain tense. It is weak in contraction and relaxation, lacking strength in the range of motion. If the massage can relax it, it is important to train it in an optimal range to secure the benefits of the massage and embrace the underlying emotions, if any. Sometimes, it's simply joy, the joy of being freed.
The Benefits of Regular Massage
It is always fascinating to massage someone who gets regular massages. You can feel it under your hands. There is an uncommon suppleness in the musculature and skin. Every time, I remind myself to get more frequent massages. It's the classic case of the shoemaker's children going barefoot!
While writing these lines, I have booked a massage for myself next week, and I can't wait.
Go get a massage!
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