The Rolf Method of Structural Integration

Created by Dr. Ida P. Rolf, structural integration, or Rolfing, is a bodywork technique, designed to restore balance within the body's soft tissue. Structural integration endeavors to remove physical strain patterns and reeducate the body's fascia.

History

• Structural integration can improve posture and alleviate slouching while seated or walking.

  Ida P. Rolf received her Ph.D. in biochemistry from Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1920. Motivated to find solutions to personal health issues, Dr. Rolf spent years studying various healing systems such as homeopathy, osteopathy and yoga.

  The idea that proper alignment, body function and the structure of anatomy are related and can impact health, resonated with Dr. Rolf. Eventually these ideas lead to the creation of the bodywork system of soft tissue manipulation, now known as Rolfing.

Function

• Appointments for structural integration are scheduled as 10 consecutive sessions.

  Structural integration works specifically on the body's soft tissue or fascia, which is connective tissue encompassing the body's muscles, bones, organs, nerves and blood vessels. Rolfing utilizes specific strokes and pressure that works to change the tissue's structure over the course of 10 sessions.

Benefits

• The work of Rolfing is performed within the body's soft tissue, called fascia.

  Rolfing can unlock or completely change individual body patterns, improve posture or body movements. Freedom from the pain of prior injuries, is also possible with the Rolf method of structural integration.