About
The Rolf Method of Structural Integration follows a 10-session recipe, “the 10-series”. Each session focuses on a specific goal and region of the body. The results are cumulative, as each session builds upon the results from the previous one.
The overall goal of the 10-session series is to organize the body around “the Line”. The effects relate specifically to improvements in posture and more generally to improvements in self-awareness and well-being.
You do not have to commit to all 10 sessions at the beginning. Sessions 1, 3 and 7 provide stopping places for those who, for whatever reason, do not wish to continue or wish to suspend the work for a reasonable period.
Each session is approximately one hour and thirty minutes in length. At the beginning of the first session we will discuss your health history and about your specific goals and intentions. I will observe how you stand, walk and other general movements. In some cases a digital image may be taken if you are interested in seeing before and after results. The majority of the work is performed with you lying on a padded table. I will apply skillful and intelligent pressure with my fingers, hands, forearms or elbows to release strains and distortions in fascial structures and restore the body to balance. Your participation in the sessions will be required as you will be asked to make small specific movements as we work. Some sessions may end up with a brief period of movement education. Movement homework may be assigned to help you integrate the new structural pattern into your functional pattern.
During the session you may experience a warm, pleasant sensation from the area that we are working with. Some individuals do not experience any sensation while others may experience some discomfort. I will apply the appropriate pressure, based on your needs and feedback. During most of the sessions I will help you to become aware of habitual patterns of movement and imbalances in your body and will help you work toward making changes in these patterns in your daily life.
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" If you can imagine how it feels to have a fluid, light, balanced body, free of pain, stiffness, and chronic stress, at ease with itself and the earths gravitational field, then you understand the goals of Structural Integration."
-Dr. Ida P. Rolf
Benefits
Structural Integration is a very personal process. It is important to remember that because no two people are alike, their experience and the benefits will never be exactly the same. As a result of the process people often appear taller and slimmer. Some actually gain anywhere from 1/4" to over 1 inch in height. Feelings of discomfort or pain are often alleviated. Other benefits are greater flexibility, a feeling of lightness and fluidity, better balance, increased breathing capacity, increased energy and greater self-confidence.
While Structural Integration is primarily concerned with physical changes in the body, it affects the whole person. We are made up of emotions, attitudes, belief systems and behavior patterns as well as the physical being. All are related. Align the physical structure and it will open up the individual's potential. Clients often report positive changes, stating less stress, greater self-confidence and improved ability to handle life's changes. Such changes have been reported in all age groups.
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Is it Painful?
In the past, RolfingTM and Structural Integration earned a reputation for being somewhat painful. Generally, clients report that they feel relaxed during the session and speak of a tension-releasing sensation as long-present aches and limitations fade away. However, some aspect of each session will be painful as tender tissue is manipulated. I looks forward to having you accomplish your goals of freedom and balance easing pain overall.
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Does Structural Integration Last?
YES! Photographs taken of clients years after the Basic Ten Series show that changes were still present and structure often improved. Keep in mind however, as life changes, bodies change in response. All injuries, accidents, lengthy illnesses and emotional stress may necessitate additional work.