What exactly is the MELT method?
MELT is an acronym for Myofascial Energetic Length Technique which is a pretty fancy way of saying that it provides therapy for the connective tissues known as the fascia. MELT is a method of self treatment to alleviate the pain and the stresses placed on the body in day-to-day activities. MELT combines various techniques using foam rollers and balls to facilitate a natural balance and state for the body.
Who created MELT?
The MELT method was created by therapist Sue Hitzmann in the early 2000s. Hitzmann developed the method because she wanted to give her clients something to practice at home that worked to address body pain directly.
How does the MELT method work?
Connective tissue is abundant in the human body as it encompasses muscles, nerves, bones, and joints. MELT is similar to getting a world class massage except for the fact that there is no need for a masseuse. It works by rehydrating the fascia by kneading, rubbing, and stretching the tissue in the hands, feet, legs, back, and shoulders. The balls are used for the hands and feet while the foam roller is used for all other areas.
Why should I practice the MELT method?
The MELT method benefits all body types and novice exercisers to advanced. Many people just accept body pain, discomfort, and stiffness as one of the ills of getting older but MELT works to eliminate aches and pains. People who practice the MELT method often see significant improvements in mobility, flexibility, posture, and overall well being due to decreased stress levels.
The MELT Techniques – “The Four R’s”
There are a various different techniques that are utilized in MELT to restore the body’s natural balance and eliminate pain. Understanding and using the Four R’s of MELT is crucial in order to achieve the optimal results.
Reconnect
- The Reconnect techniques are the foundation of MELT. These techniques are about self assessments and reassessments that help to foster strong connection between the body and mind. Identification of any imbalances in the body allows you to target specific areas and track your progress.
Rebalance
- Rebalance techniques focus on the diaphragm, the nervous system, and the NeuroCore. The expansion and contraction of the diaphragm helps reduce pain and facilitate proper functioning orgrans. Rebalancing the nervous system and the NeuroCore leads to improvement in balance and stability.
Rehydrate
- Connective tissues in the body are a part of fluid systems that are often under tension and dehydrated. Rehydrate techniques improves fluidity and relieves the tension that causes muscle pain, join pain, aches, and stress.
Release
- Release techniques are all about decompression of the joints in areas that are commonly afflicted with pain such as the neck, shoulders, lower back, hands, and feet. Releasing the compression in the joints can lead to a significant reduction and even elimination of pain in the affected areas.
MELT Classes In Portland
We offer MELT classes at our fitness center in Portland twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays. MELT classes can truly help with pain and reduce the chance of injury by rebalancing the body. Contact us for more information about MELT or stop by our fitness center.