| What is
Rolfing?
Rolfing, also known as structural integration, is a form of bodywork
named after Dr. Ida Rolf, a biochemist who was influenced by osteopathy,
physical therapy, and yoga. The goal of rolfing is to improve health
by bringing segments of the body (e.g. pelvis, legs) into proper
alignment.
Rolfing is based on the idea that fascia - the fibrous layers
covering muscles - stiffens, shortens, and loses its elasticity
after prolonged poor posture and mental and emotional stress. Rolfing
practitioners use their elbows, fingers, and knuckles to stretch
and open fascia to correct the habitual patterns of misalignment
in the head, shoulders, abdomen, pelvis, and legs. This is believed
to help open up breathing, improve digestion, balance the nervous
system, and improve physical and emotional health.
Conditions Treated
Poor posture
Muscle tension and pain, especially in the neck, upper back, and
low back
Other conditions caused by poor posture
What is a Typical Rolfing Treatment Like?
A typical course of treatment is 10 weekly, 1 hour sessions, with
each session focusing on a certain area of the body.The practitioner
begins by examining your
posture, and take photographs so that you can see the before and
after changes. You will be asked to sit or lie on a massage table
or floor mat, and the practitioner will begin the Rolfing movements.
The practitioner usually asks you to breath in sync with the manipulations.
Is Rolfing Uncomfortable?
Rolfing usually does cause some discomfort
and pain when the pressure is applied. Practitioners say this
a "reaction pain" that
may be necessary when releasing tissue adhesions and correcting
habitually poor posture.
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