Can someone please explain “myofascial release” in layman’s terms?

Self-myofascial release (SMR) is a massage soft tissue release technique that allows you to determine the correct position, amount of pressure and duration of the stretch. Its main purposes include reducing: Joint stiffness, Muscle tightness, Identifying tenderness (indicating poor circulation). It can also be used as a warm-up and a cool-down. By using your own body weight to roll on the round foam roll, you massage away restrictions to normal soft-tissue extensibility (flexibility) and improve your function; best of all, you can do it at home.