Rolfing
BENIFITS of ROLFING:
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What is Rolfing Structural Integration?
Rolfing structural integration is hands-on bodywork that focuses on aligning the body. Those who are certified to practice this type of bodywork are known as Rolfers™. Rolfing structural integration differs from other types of bodywork in that the entire body structure is assessed on how it interrelates. In this way, a Rolfer will focus on the primary causes of problems, and not so much on secondary symptomatic relief, so the results tend to be long lasting. Structural imbalances of the body can lead to chronic pain and disability or inhibit performance. An example is poor posture manifesting itself as back pain. Rolfers address the root causes of these imbalances through manipulation of connective tissue and movement education. Their aim is to realign and balance the body’s structure to optimize movement. Rolfers focus their work on a layer called fascia, the sheathing membrane that covers muscles, tendons, and organs. This fascia, like a girdle, gives shape and length to soft tissue. Over 50 years ago, Dr Ida Rolf discovered it was possible to reshape fascia with manipulation and that it would stay in the new shape. She realized it was possible to treat painful issues like scoliosis and sciatica without surgery, using this reshaping on a whole body basis. Today Rolfers work with clients to address issues of the whole body -- how it is ordered and balanced, how it moves, and how one issue can lead to problems elsewhere. Rolfers are specialists at assessing and treating body alignment issues by reshaping fascia, while educating clients. Rolfers treat athletes, moms, musicians, tradespeople, professionals, kids and seniors. Rolfing structural integration can be especially helpful for enhancing sports performance and treating chronic pain. ROLFING BASIC 10 SERIES: For complete alignment, Rolfing is completed in a 10 sessions series with tune-up visits as necessary afterwards. Each session 60 - 90 minutes. WHAT IS THE BASIC 10 SERIES?The 10 series describes a standard series of ten sessions that Rolfers often use to progressively effect changes in body structure. A Rolfer may alter the number and duration of sessions to meet the needs of the client. A 10-Series is one of the most impressive experiences a person can go through in their lifetime. A process of realigning the body in gravity, Rolfers™ use highly skilled techniques, gives length and glide to the body’s connective tissue-fascia. Each session has its own unique strategy, goals and outcome. As the process unfolds, a deeper and deeper sense of balance, stability and ease of movement unfolds. To begin the 10-Series... The goal of the 10-Series is to systematically balance and optimize both the structure (shape) and function (movement) of the entire body over the course of ten Rolfing sessions. Each session focuses on freeing restrictions or holdings trapped in a particular region of the body. We also maintain a holistic view of the client’s entire system during each session, thus ensuring the transformational process evolves in a comfortable and harmonious way. Session 1-3 Called the “sleeve” sessions, session 1-3 strive to loosen and balance surface layers of connective tissue. Specifically, the first session is devoted to enhancing the quality of breath with work on the arms, ribcage and diaphragm. Opening is also started along the upper leg, hamstrings, neck and spine. The 2nd session helps give the body a stable foundation by balancing the foot and muscles of the lower leg. The third session typically involves a “side view” for an understanding of how the head, shoulder girdle, and hips are positionally related to one another when standing under the influence of gravity. Then, the body is addressed within the context of this new vision. Session 4-7 Referred to as “core” sessions and examine terrain found between the bottom of the pelvis and top of the head. The idea of core also includes the deep tissue of the legs for its role in support. 4th session begins this journey, its territory extends from the inside arch of the foot and up the leg, to the bottom of the pelvis. The 5th session is concerned with balancing surface and deep abdominal muscles to the curve of the back. 6th session seeks to enlist more support and moment from the legs, pelvis and lower back, while the 7th session turns its sole attention to the neck and head. “Integration” is emphasized throughout the remaining three sessions, as session 8-10 provide an opportunity for the practitioner to blend previously established advancements, and ones yet to be made, into the body in a way that encourages smooth movement and natural coordination. During 8th and 9th sessions, the practitioner is free to decide how best to achieve this integration, as the protocol is unique for each individual. The 10th session is also one of integration, but more importantly, serves to inspire a sense of order and balance. Once completed, the wisdom of the Rolfing Ten Series will drive and support the body with health for years to come. What Happen After That? Client can expect to experience a greater sense of freedom, better posture and improved movement. An enhanced understanding of how the body operates in harmony with gravity will be developed through the sessions.This new comprehension of the self can then be taken forward by the client and further experienced as a process of lifelong learning. By engaging with the self and the earth’s gravity and establishing the optimal individual alignment, the client has a greater capacity to function to the best of his or her individual ability. |