Key Points from the Lecture

Three Primary Reasons for Tension in the Sternum Area

1. Fascia Connection
   • Connective tissue in the body is interconnected.
2. Inflammation Gathering Point
   • Stagnation in blood flow, arteries, veins, lymphatics, and nerve endings leads to inflammation and pain.
3. Emotional Tightness
   • Emotional withdrawal and tension can lead to physical tightness, closing down, and pulling away from the world.

Anatomy Overview

• Sternum and Rib Articulations
  • Ribs wrap from the spine and attach to the sternum.
  • Intercostal spaces between ribs contain muscles that can become tight and restricted.

Factors Leading to Tightness

• Poor breathing patterns and posture are major contributors.
• Changes in the angles of rib spaces as they progress downward.

Self-Care Techniques

• Identify the first rib space and work on intercostal spaces.
• Check for puffiness, tenderness, and swelling in the center near sternum.
  • Indicates deep circulation issues and lymphatic problems.
• Regular work on this area can be sore initially but is normal.

Detailed Anatomy

• Intercostal Muscles and Structures
  • Nerves, arteries, veins, and lymphatic fluid run between ribs.
  • Focus on rubbing near the sternum and intercostal spaces.

Visual Aids

• Use of demo skeleton to show sternum, clavicle, and rib connections.
• Highlighting intercostal spaces and changes in size and angle.

Fascia and Connective Tissue

• Fascia connects across shoulders, pectorals, and down to feet.
• Importance of freeing these areas to improve overall body function.

Fluid Flow Importance

• Blockage in fascia leads to stagnation, inflammation.
• Working on sternum area can improve fluid flow and reduce pain.

Emotional Impact

• Connection between body posture and emotional state.
• Opening up the sternum area can improve emotional well-being and physical posture.

Techniques Demonstrated

• Fingernail back-to-back technique to work on sternum area.
• Sliding fingers between ribs to massage intercostal spaces.

Benefits of Releasing Sternum Area

• Decrease tension, improve blood flow, and enhance nerve function.
• Helps in standing tall, feeling confident, and emotionally better.
• Encourages open posture and expression.

Conclusion

• Regular practice of these techniques can lead to physical and emotional improvements.
• Understanding the anatomical and emotional aspects helps in comprehensive self-care.