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Letter: Do ancient martial arts tap into our fascia?

Published 1 June 2022

From Richard Hind, York, UK

The article “Your second skin” provides a very insightful overview of current research into fascia tissue (14 May, p 38). I was intrigued by the suggestion that it could be classified as a sensory organ.

Anyone who has practised tai chi or qigong for a number of years may have experienced this as the feeling of “qi flowing” – any sensation from a slight tingle to a deep ache – during stretching and movement. I have used these methods to tame upper-back muscle spasms, which lasted a week or two when I was in my 20s. I am now over 50 and, at worst, I am uncomfortable for a day or two after a flare-up.

I hope researchers investigate these ancient practices to evaluate their effectiveness in moving and stretching fascia tissue.

Issue no. 3389 published 4 June 2022

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