Fix Pain & Improve Mobility with Myofascial Release | Featuring Leslee Bender
At Herbal Mana, we believe that movement is medicine. But if you’ve ever struggled with chronic pain, tight muscles, or old injuries, you know that movement isn’t always easy. The good news? There’s a way to train smarter, not harder—and fitness innovator Leslee Bender has spent decades proving just that. In a recent episode of the Herbal Mana Podcast, Todd Bailey sat down with Leslee to explore why traditional workouts often do more harm than good, how myofascial release can be a game-changer for pain relief, and what you can do today to start moving better and feeling stronger.
Let’s dive in! Watch the episode or keep reading for highlights below!
A Fitness Revolution Born from Injury
Leslee Bender’s journey to functional movement and myofascial release wasn’t just built in the gym—it started with a back injury. Like many fitness professionals at the time, she followed classical Pilates methods without questioning whether they were truly safe for the body. But after experiencing firsthand how traditional training lacked proper spinal support, she knew there had to be a better way.
That realization led her to create the Bender Ball, a small but powerful tool that has since transformed the way people strengthen their core, improve mobility, and prevent injuries. What started as a simple innovation quickly disrupted the fitness world, proving that big results don’t always require big movements—sometimes, the right small adjustments make all the difference.
The Problem with Traditional Core Training
We’ve all been told that sit-ups and crunches are the key to a strong core. But here’s the truth:
- Crunches overwork the hip flexors, not the deep core muscles.
- Too much flexion without support strains the lower back.
- They don’t mimic how our body actually moves in daily life.
Leslee explains that true core strength comes from a combination of stability, mobility, and alignment. That’s why the Bender Ball—and other functional training tools—focus on engaging the entire core system, not just the front-facing abdominal muscles.
Why Myofascial Release is a Game-Changer for Pain Relief
If you’ve ever used a foam roller or massage ball and felt that deep, sometimes painful release, you’ve already experienced myofascial release—even if you didn’t know what it was called.
But what is fascia, and why does it matter?
Fascia is a web-like connective tissue surrounding muscles, bones, and organs. When it gets tight or restricted, it can cause:
- Pain and stiffness
- Limited range of motion
- Increased risk of injury
Leslee explains that motion is lotion—meaning the more we move with intention and release tight fascia, the better our bodies feel and perform. Using tools like a small ball, foam roller, or even your hands, you can break up knots, improve circulation, and restore flexibility in ways that stretching alone can’t achieve.
The Emotional Connection to Fascia & Pain
Here’s something most people don’t realize: Fascia holds onto more than just tension—it stores emotions, too.
Leslee has worked with countless clients who suddenly felt an emotional release after a deep myofascial release session—whether it was a sense of calm, unexpected tears, or even a rush of energy.
This isn’t just a coincidence. Our bodies and minds are deeply connected, and when we free up stored tension in our muscles, we also release built-up emotional stress. That’s why fascia work, combined with mindful movement and breathwork, can be an incredibly powerful tool for both physical and emotional healing.
How to Start Moving Better & Feeling Stronger Today
Not sure where to start? Here are Leslee’s top tips for improving movement, flexibility, and pain relief right now:
- Ditch the crunches – Focus on functional core work that supports your spine.
- Incorporate myofascial release – Use a foam roller, massage ball, or even a small Bender Ball to target tight areas.
- Prioritize mobility – Move through dynamic stretches and rotational exercises instead of static holds.
- Use natural pain relief – Pair movement with Herbal Mana’s Royal Warrior+ Cream to soothe tight muscles and inflammation.
- Listen to your body – Adjust your approach instead of pushing through if something feels “off” or painful.
Final Thoughts: A Smarter Way to Move & Heal
Leslee Bender’s approach to functional movement and fascia work proves that pain relief isn’t about working harder but working smarter. Whether recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic stiffness, or wanting to move better as you age, incorporating these small but powerful changes can make all the difference.
Ready to experience the power of movement + natural pain relief in your life? Try Herbal Mana’s Royal Warrior+ Cream—the perfect complement to your fascia release and functional training routine. It’s formulated with DMSO, hemp, and frankincense to ease tight muscles, reduce inflammation, and support faster recovery. So, with just one easy application, you're on your way to feeling better and moving easier than ever!
Because when you hurt less, you live more.
