Most people have the idea in their heads that we are held upright by the bones in our structure. But without fascial tissue (fibrous connective tissue that holds structures of the body together) we'd be a helpless bone-filled heap on the floor.

Hard to do laundry that way.

We are supported, bound together, and held upright by the tensile strength of fascia. So it's probably a good thing to take care of it. 

Caring for and strengthening the net of tissue that connects so much of our body is just starting to become a clear and important part of physical training. Practices like tai chi, yoga, qigong, pilates, massage therapy, bodywork are all great practices for creating a strong system of connective tissue in the body. Bottom line: it prevents injury by increasing elasticity in the fascial body network.

So many injuries are the result of putting too much demand on tissue that isn't prepared for it. Luckily, connective tissue is amazingly adaptable, we're finding out. It changes quic...