What is Rolfing Structural Integration?
Rolfing is more than just a massage. It is a method for integrating the entire body.
“When she developed Rolfing Structural Integration (SI) more than 50 years ago, Dr. Ida Rolf, Ph.D., called her method structural integration. The genius of the work rests on Dr. Rolf’s insight that the body is more at ease and functions most effectively when its structure is balanced over gravity. She observed that over time, the field of gravity actually accentuates the body’s imbalances and diminishes its flexibility. Based on these core observations, she developed her original method of hands-on manipulation – which later became known as Rolfing Structural Integration – to reduce gravity’s adverse effects on the body.
Essentially, the Rolfing SI process enables the body to regain the natural integrity of its form, thus enhancing postural efficiency and freedom of movement.
Dr. Rolf recognized that the body is inherently a system of seamless networks of tissues rather than a collection of separate parts. These connective tissues, called fascia, actually surround, support, and penetrate all of the muscles, bones, nerves, and organs. Rolfing SI works on this web-like complex of connective tissue to release, realign and balance the whole body, thus resolving discomfort, reducing compensations, and alleviating pain. Rolfing SI aims to restore flexibility, revitalize your energy and leave you feeling more comfortable in your body.“
-Dr. Ida Rolf Institute
“Working with fascia, we organize the body in gravity. We find the sweet spot, where body alignment creates effortless movement through space.” -Dr. Ida Rolf
What can I expect?
An initial series of Rolfing SI consists of about 10 sessions each lasting 60-90 minutes and generally spaced 1-2 weeks apart. Each session builds on the results of the previous session.
The Rolfing Ten Series:
Sleeve Sessions: 1-3
Session 1: Breath and the Ribcage
Session 2: Support through the Feet
Session 3: Length up the Sides
Core Sessions (deep tissue influencing spine): 4-7
Session 4: Opening to the Bottom of the Core
Session 5: Continuing through the Pelvis
Session 6: Giving Space to the Sacrum
Session 7: How the Head Balances it All
Integration Sessions: 8-10
Session 8: Integration Begins
Session 9: Integration Across the Body
Session 10: Balance the Horizontals
Key Benefits of Rolfing
- Improved posture and structure
- Injury recovery
- Pain reduction
- Stress relief
- Increased balance and flexibility
- Revitalize energy