It is a very tough, strong tissue, otherwise known as the myofascial system. Connective tissue is the support system of our body. All of the major systems in the body (circulatory, digestive, nervous, musculo-skeletal and organs) are ensheathed in connective tissue. A healthy and balanced connective tissue system's characteristics are flexibility, elasticity, length and resilience. The tissue absorbs and responds to gravitational force, illness, injury, emotional trauma and plain everyday stress. Any of these factors will immediately, or over a period of time, cause an imbalance in the tissue system. When imbalance exists, the system's healthy characteristics are effected. The imbalance is identified as a shortening, thickening and dehydration of the tissue which impairs joint mobility and muscle function. This is usually felt in the body as chronic pain, discomfort, stiffness or de-creased flexibility and impaired movement.