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Writer's pictureJohn M. Caruso

From Tight Hips to a Hidden Power: How the Psoas Muscle Holds the Key to Pain Relief and Strength.

In our fast-paced world, where most of us spend hours sitting at a desk, it's easy to overlook the impact our daily habits have on our bodies.


One muscle, in particular, often goes unnoticed despite its profound influence on both physical and mental health, the psoas muscle. This deep-seated muscle plays a crucial role in everything from maintaining proper posture to anchoring our primal survival instincts.


As a massage therapist in Sarasota, Florida, specializing in holistic healing and personalized pain relief, I’ve seen firsthand how modern lifestyles can wreak havoc on the psoas muscle. It’s a muscle that, when tight, can cause back pain, sciatica, and consequently even affect our emotional well-being.



The Hidden Toll of Modern Lifestyles on the Psoas


Think about your typical day: sitting in front of a computer, driving to and from work, and maybe even unwinding with some TV in the evening.


All this sitting tightens the psoas, pulling on the lower lumbar vertebrae and leading to poor posture, lower back pain, and stiffness.


This is not just a physical issue; it’s a mental one too. A tight psoas can trigger feelings of stress and anxiety, linking our modern stressors to an ancient survival response.


But the good news? With a little attention and care, you can reverse this process, releasing tension and finding both physical and mental relief.


Your Body's Bridge Between Past and Present


The psoas muscle is more than just a muscle; it’s a bridge between our modern lives and our ancient instincts.


Often referred to as the “muscle of the soul,” it connects our upper and lower body and is deeply intertwined with the diaphragm, influencing our breathing and emotional state. When your stressed, your breathing patterns change, tightening the psoas and creating a feedback loop that exacerbates both physical and emotional tension.


Understanding this connection has been a game-changer for many of my patients. By addressing psoas tension through my specialized therapy, I'm not only alleviating your back pain but also reconnecting you with your inner calm, free from anxiety.


Practical Solutions for a Healthy Psoas (DIY)


I often see how tension in the psoas muscle can affect both office workers and athletes. That's why I recommend this simple DIY technique using a massage ball to help release this tension and lengthen the psoas muscles.


Not only will this improve your flexibility, but it will also boost your athletic strength and reduce the risk of injuries in sports like tennis, golf, or pickleball.


Here's what you do: (Duration: 5 - 10 minutes)


1. Position Your Ball: Start by grabbing a massage ball and placing it slightly to the side of your belly button, about 2-3 inches laterally and 1 inch downward. This targeted placement is key for effective release.


2. Tune Into Your Body: Before applying pressure, take a moment to locate your psoas muscle. Lift your leg and flex your hip; this will help you feel where the muscle is most active.


3. Breathe Through the Release: As you press into the muscle, you may feel significant tightness. Take slow, deep breaths and allow your body to relax. Over time, the tension will begin to dissipate.


4. Gradually Explore: Slowly move the ball down along the side of your belly, exploring any areas that feel particularly tight or sore.



Guys, I've seen remarkable improvements in my patients who incorporate this simple practice daily.



Take Action for Your Well-Being



It’s easy to overlook the small things in our busy lives, but sometimes, those small things, like the health of your core muscles, can make all the difference in everything you do.


But what if you don't release the tension, relieve the pain, and experience that inner calm that’s so essential to a balanced, healthy life?


How would these repercussions affect you down the line?


Would this trouble bleed into your family, your work, or those activities you love to participate in over the weekend?

I invite you to book a session with me and experience the benefits of specialized massage therapy. 👇🏻




Remember; transformation is always within reach, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.




John Caruso LMT. NMT. Body Soul Remedy

Sarasota, Florida

(941) 281-8928



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