Why not stretch?

The stretch reflex is a primal response by the body.  When it receives a stimulus to stretch a muscle – an impulse is rapidly sent to the spinal cord – to contract the muscle against the stretch.  This reflex is meant to prevent the muscle from being pulled forcefully or taken beyond its normal range.

The impulse only travels to the spinal cord and back to the muscle spindle.  Not all the way to the brain. 

The stretch reflex is very important in posture.  It helps to maintain proper posturing.  A slight lean to either side causes a stretch in the spinal, hip and leg muscles to the other side, this is quickly countered. The constant process of adjusting and maintaining is constantly under push and pull forces – this is your proprioception – your body trying to find homeostasis (balance).

When we attempt to stretch a muscle that is in a state of sensory motor amnesia (locked, painful, restricted), we activate the stretch reflex actually causing the muscle to tighten more. What we need instead is contraction, controlled and complete release.  We learn to reset the muscle length.  Improve motor function through the use of pandiculation.  Stimulating the brain and the nervous system to release chronic muscle spasms.

photo shot at Aro Ha