My Journey with Myofascial Release Therapy: From Pain to Freedom - with Stephanie Reading (The Holistic Musician)

Stephanie is one of the beloved businesses hiring space at Holistic House Skipton, offering an incredible massage-based treatment therapy called Myofascial Release Therapy.

In this blog post, jump into Steph’s world as she shares her fascinating journey from pain to freedom! Enjoy! >>>

“As a musician, my hands are everything. Every note I played was a direct connection between my body and my music. So, when I developed carpal tunnel syndrome, it felt like my world was crumbling. The pain and numbness not only made playing difficult, it filled me with fear. Would I lose my ability to create and share music?

After countless alternative treatments with little relief, I discovered something life-changing: John F. Barnes Myofascial Release Therapy. Not only did it save my music, but it also opened the door to a whole new calling.

When Music Became Painful

It started as a mild ache in my wrists after long practice sessions, then progressed to numbness from my elbows to my fingers. Playing became a source of frustration instead of joy. Doctors recommended wrist braces, stretches, and even surgery as my symptoms worsened. But surgery wasn’t an option for me. I knew I needed something more.

Discovering Healing Ancient Wounds

In my search for a non-invasive solution, I found John F. Barnes’ book Healing Ancient Wounds. It felt as though Barnes was speaking directly to me. He explained how fascia, our body’s connective tissue, can store tension, restrict movement, and even hold emotional trauma. Suddenly, my pain made sense: it wasn’t just about overuse. Years of stress, bad posture, and trying to “push through” had created tightness throughout my body.

I learned that fascia is a web of connective tissue that supports and surrounds everything in our bodies. When healthy, it allows for smooth movement. But when it becomes tight or stuck, it restricts motion and causes pain.

Barnes’s philosophy of gentle, patient healing, that looks for the root cause, inspired me to try MFR. Little did I know, this would be the first step in reclaiming not just my body but my life.

The Power of Myofascial Release

My first session of MFR was nothing like I’d expected. It wasn’t about force or quick fixes. Instead, my therapist applied steady, sustained pressure to areas of tension, allowing my fascia to release naturally. At first, it felt subtle, but as they worked on a tight spot in my shoulder, something shifted. The tension didn’t just release in that spot, it seemed to ripple through my entire body. It was like my muscles could finally breathe and relax.

Each session has a personalised, intuitive approach to your body’s needs. Some days were focused on my shoulders; other days, it was my hips and pelvis. Unlike deep-tissue massage, MFR is gentle, I never left sore.

With regular sessions, my carpal tunnel has completely disappeared. The transformation was so profound that I decided to train as a John F. Barnes Myofascial Release Therapist. I wanted to help others find relief and rediscover freedom of movement. Today, I balance my music teaching career with my therapy practice, and it’s deeply fulfilling to guide others on their healing journeys.

Is Myofascial Release for You?

If you’re struggling with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or feeling “stuck,” I can’t recommend MFR enough. It’s not a magic cure, but it’s a powerful way to address the root cause of discomfort.

My advice;

• Be Patient: Healing takes time.

• Trust the Process: Even small releases add up.

• Find the Right Therapist: Look for someone trained in Barnes’s methods who listens to your needs.

MFR gave me more than just physical relief, it deepened my connection to my body. I’m more mindful of how I move and where I hold tension. It’s helped me play better, live freer, and embrace a healthier relationship with myself.

If you’re considering MFR, I encourage you to give it a try. For me, it was a turning point, transforming pain into freedom and helping me discover a new passion for healing. It just might change your life, too.”

Fancy Trying This Unique, Incredible Therapy With Steph?

OFFERINGS & PRICES:

1 hour session: £50
Introductory block of 3 sessions: £125

BOOK A SESSION HERE:
https://www.stephaniereading.co.uk/mfr/myofascial-release/

Email Enquiries: stephaniereadingmfr@gmail.com

FOLLOW STEPH ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Instagram: @the.holistic.musician