ROLFING
What is Rolfing?
Rolfing, also known as Rolfing Structural Integration, is a holistic therapy developed by Dr. Ida P. Rolf in the mid-20th century.
This technique focuses on deep tissue manipulation and movement education to realign and balance the body's structure, aiming to improve posture, relieve chronic pain, and enhance physical performance. The process involves a series of ten sessions, each targeting different aspects of the body's connective tissue, or fascia, to release tension and promote better alignment.
Unlike traditional massage, Rolfing delves deeper into the fascia to address structural imbalances and improve the body's overall function. Benefits of Rolfing include improved posture, pain relief, increased mobility, and stress reduction.
However, the session's intensity ranges from light to deep and is balanced by input and communication from the client. Unlike massage, in rolfing, the client and practitioner work together to find a comfortable technique to create systematic change and fascial release. Rolfing is not a quick fix but a progressive therapy that requires a commitment to achieve lasting results
What are the main benefits of Rolfing?
1
Enhanced Mobility
The deep tissue manipulation involved in Rolfing improves flexibility and range of motion. This allows for smoother and more fluid movements, which is advantageous for athletes and individuals with restricted mobility.
2
Increased Body Awareness
Through the process of Rolfing, clients become more attuned to their body’s alignment and movement patterns. This heightened body awareness can lead to better movement habits and a greater understanding of how to maintain physical health and balance.
3
Improved Posture
Rolfing realigns the body’s structure by manipulating the fascia, leading to better posture. This reduces strain on muscles and joints, promoting a more balanced and efficient stance.
The Ten Series Journey:
The first three sessions, called "sleeve" sessions, address superficial fascia and areas of the body, working from light to deep, head to toe, in a method similar to layering "puff pastry." These sessions explore "Where am I?" regarding physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual states.
The next four sessions, known as "core" sessions, focus on deeper fascial layers, spinal rotations, and core-to-sleeve relationships. They explore "Who am I?" and often prompt clients to evaluate life patterns and relationships.
The final three sessions, the "integration" sessions, integrate the work into daily movement patterns, aiming for harmony and resolving any remaining functional issues. They contemplate "Where am I going?" and help clients present their authentic selves more easily.
Each client's journey with Rolfing Structural Integration is unique. While many notice improved alignment, the goal is to offer more movement, function, and experience options, breaking habitual patterns and allowing muscle groups to function individually.
This often leads to greater bodily ease and reduced pain, though pain is complex and involves both sensation and emotion.
Discover the possibilities with our Advanced Rolfing 3 and 5 Series Journeys!
Common Questions About
Rolfing
What happens after the Ten-Series?
After completing the 10 to 15 sessions, clients move on to "Integration" sessions 11 and 12. These occur six weeks to 3 months later, with no Rolfing work for six weeks to a year. This period allows clients to use their learned skills and let their bodies adapt naturally. Some clients never return for more Rolfing post-series, while others opt for touch-ups every few months or annually. Some may choose to repeat the 10-series. It is a personalized experience tailored to each client's needs.
Can Rolfing help with chronic pain?
Yes, Rolfing can help alleviate chronic pain by addressing structural imbalances and tension in the fascia that contribute to discomfort.
Who can benefit from Rolfing?
Rolfing can benefit individuals with chronic pain, poor posture, limited mobility, athletes seeking to improve performance, and anyone interested in enhancing their overall body awareness and structural balance.
Can Rolfing be combined with other therapies?
Yes, Rolfing can be complementary to other therapies such as acupuncture, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and massage.