Photo by Jordan Marwin of incidentalartofficial.com
By Madeleine Kates
Athletes know the importance of stretching for recovery and physical health, but the healing power of stretch can benefit everyone. Jocelyn Craft, stretch practitioner and owner of Stretch*d Out Buffalo LLC, uses assisted stretching techniques to create an experience that is accessible for anyone of any age or physical skill level.
Assisted stretch therapy is a one-on-one, hands-on technique in which practitioners guide clients through a customized 30- or 60-minute stretching session. Clients can experience a deeper, more targeted stretch to meet their individual needs and physical goals.
With degrees in Sport and Exercise Science from Gannon University and Physical Therapy Assisting from Villa Maria College, plus a background in competitive athletics, Jocelyn uses the science of movement to help her clients build basic foundational healing movements to relieve tight muscles, increase range of motion, prevent injury, improve blood flow and flexibility, and enhance physical performance.
“Adding a little movement to your routine can improve the quality of your life,” says Jocelyn, noting, “When we can’t move properly, we may be more likely to sustain injuries.”
Appointments for one-on-one stretching are available with Jocelyn or her husband, Derik, or clients can choose from a variety of guided stretch classes offered in a group setting. Among the most noticeable feelings after a first stretching session is the release of tightness, often in the chest area and hip flexors. For many of Jocelyn’s clients, this is an area of the body that has been affected by the work-from-home culture, the impact of poor posture, and a bad seating position.
Stretch*d Out Buffalo is flourishing and has expanded the services offered at its locally owned site in the Town of Tonawanda. Offerings include collaborative classes with a variety of holistic professionals and complementary healing modalities, such as physical therapists, meditation practitioners, yogis, and an acupuncturist. Some of their most popular classes include Stretch and Restore, Senior Chair Yoga, Rage Release Stretching, and Partner Stretch. They also host private or corporate events in-person or virtually.
The ground-level facility and fragrance-free policy add to the accessibility of Stretch*d Out Buffalo. “It is an incredible experience to be able to help clients heal their bodies and restore their health through the unexpected benefits of assisted stretching,” says Jocelyn. Visit the studio at 4275 Delaware Avenue in the Town of Tonawanda. For more information, call 716- 908-5649, or visit www.stretchdoutbuffalo.org.
Madeleine Kates is a recent graduate of Niagara University with degrees in Environmental Science, Life Science, and Psychology. She holds certificates in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University, and CHEF Coaching from Harvard University.
