In this episode of The Well2You Podcast, Sue McCarroll sits down with Mira Rucker, licensed massage therapist, recovery specialist, and ELDOA practitioner with over 20 years of experience in bodywork and movement therapy. Together, they explore ELDOA (Longitudinal Osteoarticular De-coaptation Stretches); a precise, intentional practice designed to create space within the joints, improve mobility, reduce pain, and support long-term spinal and nervous system health. Mira breaks down what ELDOA actually is (and what it’s not), why joint decompression is essential for healing, and how ELDOA supports the body’s ability to counteract the effects of gravity, stress, and aging. The conversation also highlights the importance of hydration, fascia health, and body awareness, as well as how ELDOA integrates beautifully with Pilates, yoga, and other movement practices. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t always require more effort, sometimes it simply requires more space! Key Takeaways: • ELDOA stands for Longitudinal Osteoarticular De-coaptation Stretches. • Creating joint space improves mechanics, circulation, and pain reduction. • Proper hydration is essential for fascia health and effective ELDOA practice. • The practice enhances body awareness, nervous system regulation, and mind-body connection. • ELDOA integrates seamlessly with Pilates, yoga, osteopathy, and bodywork. Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to ELDOA and Mira Rucker 03:01 – What Is ELDOA? Definition and Core Benefits 06:02 – How ELDOA Works: Joint Mechanics Explained 08:45 – Mira’s Journey Into ELDOA and Bodywork 11:57 – ELDOA and Osteopathy: A Whole-Body Approach 14:59 – Integrating ELDOA with Pilates and Yoga 18:01 – Mobility vs. Flexibility: Why Space Matters 20:59 – Hydration, Fascia, and Movement 24:01 – Pain, Compression, and Joint Health 26:46 – Aging, Gravity, and the Need for Decompression 27:37 – Mind-Body Awareness Through ELDOA 30:10 – Precision, Presence, and Nervous System Support 35:03 – Movement as Quality of Life 39:39 – What to Expect in an ELDOA Class 44:06 – The Future of ELDOA and Therapeutic Movement Keywords: ELDOA, Mira Rucker, joint health, bodywork, mobility, flexibility, osteopathy, hydration, aging and movement, Pilates, fascia, spinal decompression, nervous system health Meet Mira Rucker: Mira is licensed massage therapist and recovery specialist with over 20 years of experience. Her practice, Align & Recover, offers an integrative approach to help you move better, feel better, and live stronger. Mira’s work is shaped by her experience with professional and collegiate athletes (including the Philadelphia Flyers, Temple University, and Cornell), and advanced certifications in Pilates, Yoga, ELDOA, Craniosacral Therapy, and Functional Movement. Book your session today! mira.massagetherapy.com Meet your host: Sue McCarroll is the founder of Opal Wellness Studio. Sue has a unique style of coaching women to increase self-care, self-compassion, navigate busy mom life and nourish their bodies mentally, emotionally, and physically. She is is a holistic health coach, Pilates teacher, business owner and mom who gave up diet-culture beliefs to live a lifestyle full of clarity and vitality! You can learn more about Sue on Instagram Thank you for listening! Please take a moment to subscribe and review. This supports the Well2You Podcast in reaching more people who need to be connected to these impactful conversations. APPLE PODCASTS SPOTIFY
