One of my favorites and definitely most used!! This is a nice way to start the day and a GREAT technique for pre–yoga / breathwork / training / surfing / and of course, I gotta think about all my free-diving friends!
This technique focuses on the intercostal muscles between the ribs. These muscles help us to BREATHE — elevating & expanding the chest cavity on the inhalation, and depressing the ribs & decreasing space in the chest cavity on a forced exhalation. So, it would make sense that tension or restrictions in these tissues (which can be common because, well, life) can have some affect on our respiration.
The cool thing about this MFR technique is that you don’t need any props — sólo tús manos — and, in my experience, I notice the effects right away! But remember, like all yoga / body-work / self-care modalities, consistency is QUEEN! And a little bit every day (or every couple of days) has the possibility to create positive, lasting change.
So give it a go! It’ll only take a couple of minutes out of your day. And if you do try it, I’d love to hear your experience :)