Today hosts Tiffany and Katja are back for another research roundup, this time on hyaluronic acid or hyaluronan. This molecule is not only used in face creams but also helps to create tissue properties related to the slide and glide between tissue layers. In this episode, we talk about where it is found in the body, how it is produced, and how it is affected by bodily movement.  Listen in to learn how hyaluronan works, how it relates to the yoga practice, and why it's important for our lives. Show Notes: Main attributes of hyaluronan [3:24] Fasciacytes and other cells that produce hyaluronan [9:21] The many functions of hyaluronan [14:46] The process of recycling hyaluronic acid in the body [16:12] How the length and weight of hyaluronan molecules affect function [17:29] Self-aggregation/densification of hyaluronan [21:05] Factors affecting self-aggregation: mechanical force and temperature [24:05] How movement affects hyaluronan [25:34] Understanding hyaluronan as a yoga teacher [33:16] Biochemical milieu (local pH) and hyaluronan [38:05] Densification, fibrosis, and hyaluronan [43:27] Diagnostic challenges with hyaluronan [46:32] Links Mentioned: Watch this episode on YouTube Hyaluronan Resources Doc Yoga Medicine® Online Myofascial Release Training Yoga for Athletes Teacher Training Shoulder: Anatomy, Dysfunction & Application Yoga Teacher Training Hip: Anatomy, Dysfunction & Application Yoga Teacher Training Spine: Anatomy, Dysfunction & Application Yoga Teacher Training Functional Anatomy Online Course with Yoga International Connect with Katja Bartsch: Facebook | Instagram | Kalamana Yoga | Yoga Medicine® Online Guest Teacher You can learn more about this episode, and see the full show notes at YogaMedicine.com/podcast-67. And you can find out more about insider tips, online classes or information on our teacher trainings at YogaMedicine.com. To support our work, please leave us a 5 star review with your feedback on iTunes/Apple Podcasts.