ROLFING® STRUCTURAL INTEGRATIONNamed after its founder, Dr. Ida P. Rolf, Rolfing® Structural Integration is a form of bodywork that focuses on reorganizing the body’s connective tissues, called fascia, which surround and support every muscle, bone, nerve, and organ.
Over fifty years ago, Dr. Rolf recognized that the body functions as an interconnected system of tissues, rather than a collection of separate parts. Rolfing works with this web-like network to release tension, realign the body, and restore balance. By addressing deep patterns in the fascia, Rolfing can help resolve discomfort, reduce compensation patterns, and alleviate pain. The process aims to restore flexibility, revitalize energy, and help you feel more at ease in your body. Ultimately, Rolfing enables the body to regain its natural integrity enhancing posture, movement, and overall well-being. |
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WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A SESSION
A typical Rolfing® Structural Integration session lasts about 60 minutes and follows a methodical, holistic structure. Sessions begin with a brief intake and conversation to discuss your goals, medical history, and any physical or emotional concerns that may affect posture or movement. This is followed by a postural and movement assessment, where the Rolfer observes how your body moves and aligns while standing, walking, or sitting—sometimes using photographs (with your consent) to track progress over time.
The core of the session involves hands-on structural work, using slow, focused techniques to release and realign fascia. Most of this work is done on a massage table, with you lying in various positions, though seated or standing techniques may also be included. Pressure is applied using fingers, knuckles, or elbows, and you may be asked to assist with gentle movements or breathing to support the release process. If you’re going through the Rolfing 10-Series, this work will follow a specific progression.
Movement education is often integrated during or after the manual work to help you build more efficient patterns and support alignment with gravity in daily life. Sessions typically conclude with a few minutes to reflect on changes you’ve noticed, discuss follow-up care, and possibly receive light integration work to help stabilize the body.
A typical Rolfing® Structural Integration session lasts about 60 minutes and follows a methodical, holistic structure. Sessions begin with a brief intake and conversation to discuss your goals, medical history, and any physical or emotional concerns that may affect posture or movement. This is followed by a postural and movement assessment, where the Rolfer observes how your body moves and aligns while standing, walking, or sitting—sometimes using photographs (with your consent) to track progress over time.
The core of the session involves hands-on structural work, using slow, focused techniques to release and realign fascia. Most of this work is done on a massage table, with you lying in various positions, though seated or standing techniques may also be included. Pressure is applied using fingers, knuckles, or elbows, and you may be asked to assist with gentle movements or breathing to support the release process. If you’re going through the Rolfing 10-Series, this work will follow a specific progression.
Movement education is often integrated during or after the manual work to help you build more efficient patterns and support alignment with gravity in daily life. Sessions typically conclude with a few minutes to reflect on changes you’ve noticed, discuss follow-up care, and possibly receive light integration work to help stabilize the body.
WHO IT’S FOR
Rolfing® Structural Integration is beneficial for a wide range of people, especially those dealing with chronic pain, postural imbalances, or movement restrictions. It’s commonly sought by individuals with back, neck, or joint pain; those recovering from injuries or surgeries; and people experiencing tension related to stress or repetitive strain. Rolfing can also support athletes, dancers, and performers looking to improve performance and recovery, as well as those exploring body awareness, emotional well-being, or personal growth. Whether you’re managing physical discomfort, seeking better alignment, or curious about the connection between body and mind, Rolfing offers a whole-body approach to feeling more at ease.
Rolfing® Structural Integration is beneficial for a wide range of people, especially those dealing with chronic pain, postural imbalances, or movement restrictions. It’s commonly sought by individuals with back, neck, or joint pain; those recovering from injuries or surgeries; and people experiencing tension related to stress or repetitive strain. Rolfing can also support athletes, dancers, and performers looking to improve performance and recovery, as well as those exploring body awareness, emotional well-being, or personal growth. Whether you’re managing physical discomfort, seeking better alignment, or curious about the connection between body and mind, Rolfing offers a whole-body approach to feeling more at ease.
HOW ROLFING FEELS
Most people describe Rolfing as deep, focused bodywork that can feel intense at times, especially in areas of chronic tension, but ultimately relieving and grounding. You might experience a sense of release, greater ease of movement, and sometimes mild soreness, similar to a workout or deep massage.
Most people describe Rolfing as deep, focused bodywork that can feel intense at times, especially in areas of chronic tension, but ultimately relieving and grounding. You might experience a sense of release, greater ease of movement, and sometimes mild soreness, similar to a workout or deep massage.