Psoas Power: A Journey of Protection and Release

Let’s delve into the world of soft tissue magic and the unsung hero, the psoas! This deep core muscle is a silent influencer on your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, and as a soft tissue masseuse, I’ve seen the transformative power of giving it some love.

Meet the psoas – the rockstar of your hip function, also known as the Iliopsoas. It’s like the conductor, merging with the iliacus to connect your torso to your legs, keeping you upright no matter if you’re walking, cycling, yogi-ing, or just chilling on your couch. This muscle is the behind-the-scenes player in pretty much every move you make.

Engage your major hip flexor when you lift those legs, strike a yoga pose, hop on a bike, or take a dip in the pool. It craves a stretch and to be lengthened, especially during those yoga Cobras and Wheels. A lot of us walk around with a tight psoas that impacts our day to day life but fear not – massage and yoga are a dynamic duo for unearthing and easing that tension.

Why does a happy psoas matter? Picture this: more grounded, relaxed vibes and a broader range of movement. On the other hand, a tight psoas? Brace yourself for back, hip, ankle, and knee discomfort, along with a serving of fatigue – not exactly the dance we’re aiming for.

Now, stress – we know it’s not just a mental game. Your hips, orchestrated by the psoas, are a stress storage zone. Startled? Psoas tightens. Mental or emotional stress? Yep, it responds with a firm grip. Fight, flight or fright! 🤺🚀🧟‍♀️ 😀 As a soft tissue masseuse, I’ve felt the stories these hips hold.

Consider your hips the Piccadilly Circus of your body. Muscles and forces converge there, carrying the weight of your upper body. So, give some love to that psoas muscle today – the unsung hero holding you together, from the top to the bottom.

Some tips to ease, help fend off or just to enjoy…

1. Gentle Stretching Routine: Incorporate daily stretches that target the hip flexors, like lunges or kneeling hip flexor stretches, to gradually release tension in the psoas.
2. Deep Breathing Practices: Engage in diaphragmatic breathing to relax and indirectly release the psoas. Deep, mindful breaths can signal your body to let go of unnecessary tension.
3. Massage Therapy: Seek professional massage therapy, focusing on the abdominal and hip areas. A skilled therapist can help release tightness in the psoas and surrounding muscles.
4. Yoga Poses: Include yoga postures specifically designed to stretch and strengthen the psoas, such as Cobra, Pigeon, Bridge, or Warrior lunges. Consistent practice can contribute to improved flexibility.
5. Self-Myofascial Release: Use tools like foam rollers or massage balls to apply pressure and release tension in the psoas. Roll gently and mindfully to avoid causing additional strain.