Structural Integration bodywork, or Rolfing, dives deep into the vast network of fascia to provide long-lasting relief from chronic discomfort and imbalance.
Ida Rolf and the Ten Series
With a doctorate degree in biochemistry, Ida Rolf began examining the relationships of biomechanical tensegrity, and the body’s relationship with gravity in the 1940’s. In 1971, the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration was formed and remains the only school to teach Rolf-method structural integration.
The Rolf-method structural integration series begins with three ‘sleeve’ or ‘opening’ sessions. These sessions work with the superficial tissues of the upper, lower, and mid-body respectively to begin the reorganization process.
Sessions four through seven take a more focused approach to each of the seven fascial line of the human body. These ‘core’ or ‘differentiation’ sessions focus on making space for each individual muscle to move independently, and as efficiently as possible. Theses sessions address the medial and lateral leg lines, the front line, the back line, and the orientation of the head and neck.
The final three sessions of the Rolf-method series are the ‘integrative’ sessions where focus is placed on enhancing the interactions of all parts of the body. Once each muscle component and joint space has adequate space to move and has been restored to biomechanical neutrality, then the practitioner can enhance the conversation between these parts to unite the body as a unit.