How Fascia Stores Trauma: Releasing the Body’s Hidden Tension Through Movement
- Kris
- 12 minutes ago
- 2 min read
“Your issues are in your tissues.”
It’s a phrase that may sound dramatic, but growing evidence in neuroscience and somatic therapy suggests it’s more literal than we think. The fascia—our body’s connective tissue web—does more than support our muscles. It remembers. It responds. And yes, it holds trauma.
But what does that really mean? And how can movement, like Pilates and mindful mobility, help us release what’s been locked away?
Understanding Fascia: The Body’s Communication Web
Fascia is the continuous, fibrous tissue that wraps around muscles, bones, organs, and nerves. Think of it like a 3D spiderweb that links every part of your body together. When healthy, fascia glides easily, supporting fluid movement. But when we’re injured—physically or emotionally—this tissue can tighten and constrict, storing stress and trauma in the form of chronic tension, pain, or restricted movement.
Trauma (big or small) can create patterns in the fascia that stick around long after the threat is gone. These holding patterns aren’t just physical—they’re emotional echoes, silently influencing our posture, breath, and how safe we feel in our own bodies.
How Trauma Shows Up in the Body:
Chronic pain or tightness that medical tests can’t explain
A feeling of “armoring up” or stiffness in the chest, jaw, or hips
Emotional release during stretching or movement
Shallow breathing or nervous system dysregulation
Sudden fatigue or energy shifts after deep mobility work
Ways to Release Fascia and Gently Unwind Trauma:
Myofascial Release (Self or Assisted):
Foam rolling, tennis balls, or hands-on techniques help release built-up tension. Move slowly. Breathe deeply. Tune in.
Gentle Mobility & Pilates:
Controlled, mindful movement invites the fascia to let go, rather than forcing it. Our “Foam Roller Flow” and “Fascial Flexibility” classes on the Kore Fitness Workout Channel are great starting points.
Breathwork + Movement Integration:
Breathing patterns deeply influence fascia and the nervous system. Try combining deep diaphragmatic breathing with thoracic mobility work for maximum release.
Somatic Awareness Practices:
Bringing attention to sensation helps uncover stuck patterns. Consider journaling after sessions to reflect on emotions or memories that arise.
Related Kore Kast Episodes
To dive deeper into the mind-body connection and trauma release, listen to:
Season 1/Episode 5: “What is Fascia”https://www.buzzsprout.com/2106457/episodes/12559406-what-is-fascia
Season 3/Episode 12: “Inside Out: Delving into Pain and the Power of Pilates ”https://www.buzzsprout.com/2106457/episodes/15383374-inside-out-delving-into-pain-and-the-power-of-pilates
Season 3/Episode 17: “From Brain to Body- The Profound Effects of Trauma” https://www.buzzsprout.com/2106457/episodes/15574518-from-brain-to-body-the-profound-effects-of-trauma
Season 1/Episode 15 “Foam Rolling 101: Roll Your Way to Recovery”https://www.buzzsprout.com/2106457/episodes/13000734-foam-rolling-101-roll-your-way-to-recovery
🎙️ Catch up on all episodes here: Kore Kast Podcast
Final Thoughts
Relief doesn’t come from pushing harder. It comes from listening closer. When we move with intention, we send a powerful message to the fascia: You’re safe now. It’s okay to let go.
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