07/11/2026
Have you ever found yourself bending into deeper and deeper stretches, yet finding no relief from that pesky pain?
Even if it feels good in the moment, I’d try experimenting with a different approach. Overstretching can dump into the joint tissues and actually create more instability, which leads to more discomfort down the line.
Instead, try pandiculation based somatic exercises, like the ones taught in Hanna Somatics.
A pandiculation is when you intentionally and slowly engage and release specific muscle groups, reminding them what balanced tone and proper function feel like.
It’s a very natural process, one your body is probably already doing. Think of a full body stretch and yawn.
Animals like cats and dogs do this when getting up from resting. It’s a biological process of adaptation, moving through neuromuscular impulses at work.
The movements can feel funny or unfamiliar at first, but the results are unmatched. The trick is really slowing down.
With consistent practice, you’ll grow your ability to get personal with your felt sense and awareness, noticing subtleties you may have missed before.
The result: more agency and more access to choice.
This is the kind of work I teach in our private one-on-one sessions.
Want to know more? Send me a message.
