I’ve been meaning to write about this book for a while, but haven’t been sure of what to say.  Maybe I’m a bit starstruck? It is written by a serious yogini, Jill Miller.  Her knowledge of human anatomy, injuries, dysfunctions, and rehab therapies is extensive.  Though she looks as if she has never tried to pick up a heavy kettle bell in her life (that isn’t her on the cover, with the impressive quads), she actually partners with one of the CrossFit world’s biggest names, Kelly Starrett, physiotherapist extraordinaire.  I like it when people in diverse fields team up and work together.  My interest is immediately piqued. Miller and Starrett’s work compliments each other and they kid around together like long lost siblings, finally reunited.  They both think we should all know how to perform basic maintenance and upkeep on our bodies – we should have self-help strategies for strains, sprains, aches and pains.  One of the easiest and most effective strategies is to roll on balls!

Sometimes the marketing style on Miller’s products runs a little cheesy.  I won’t link you there, take heart.   If you look beyond the air brushed splendour on her DVDs and promotional pieces, you’ll find what she says to be 100% solid.  125 Amazon.com customers have reviewed her book and 88% give it 5 out of 5 stars!  Not only is this book packed with practical, time tested advice, it is beautifully illustrated and full of first hand testimonials about how this therapy has helped many people with diseases and injuries ranging from MS, to migraines, to plantar fasciitis.  This book is for anyone who has a body that sometimes hurts.  Yes, you will also need to find access to some balls, and will probably have to buy some.  You can find them for less than 5 dollars each and do not need to buy official balls from her website.  Many fitness related stores stock these kinds of balls.   If all else fails find some at the dollar store and improvise.  I have one that lights up and flashes when I roll on it and it only cost $3.

Though easy to do and effective, rolling will sometimes be uncomfortable and intense.  Just as massage therapy is often the least relaxing thing imaginable, so is rolling.  Afterwards you feel great, but during you might even prefer the sound of nails on a blackboard.

Place a hold on The roll model : a step-by-step guide to erase pain, improve mobility, and live better in your body here.