Rolfing is normally taught or applied in ten to fifteen sessions of variable length.  Each segment of the process is both a continuation of the previous one and an introduction to the next. The body is systematically and physically manipulated during the ten-session series.  The series is designed to uncover and offer a structural ease and kinetic balance that is unique to each client. 

Rolfing works through the fascial system.  Fascia is composed of three layers; Superficial, or the "body stocking", intermediate, and deep.  The ten sessions begin with sessions 1-3 focusing on releasing restrictions in the "superficial" "body stocking" layer.  Sessions 4-7 move in to the intermediate layer, down to the deep fascia, working consciously with tensions that create misalignments and dysfunctions throughout the whole system.  Sessions 8-10 focus on overall function in the field of gravity and instead of differentiation, integration is the theme.

Fascia serves as a web that gives support, and allows freedom of muscular motion. That is, until the fascia is injured.  Then it creates a glue-like substance that begins to inhibit movement and, over time, noticeably decreases range, comfortability, and sometimes overall health and wellbeing.  Damage to the fascia can result from a range of traumas, or simply years of accumulated stress from poor posture, or difficulty in the mind/body connection.  Release of fascial "glueing" allows the body, in many cases, to almost immediately stop the downward spiral of ill health and begin reorienting to correct organization through the gravitational field.  

Gravity is the Rolfer's unspoken tool. Rolfing works to free this glueing so that the body can shift in alignment with graivty and establish a relationship that is supportive and nourishing. Fascia responds to gentle pressure, as well as deep. It is through a Rolfer's deep understanding and connection to this tissue that informs the type of touch to be applied.

Rolfers approach each client as a whole person, holding the inquiry of, what beliefs, and/or forces, have created the form through which this being occupies? It is our goal to empower our clients with information that is layered within this fascial matrix. Through touch, movement, and education we invite efficiency and ease into the body and address its relationship to gravity.

 

What can I expect from my first Rolfing® session?

Allow an hour and a half for your first Rolfing® session. We will start by discussing your health history, current condition, goals and any questions you have about Rolfing®. You’ll then undress to your underwear, or, if you prefer, gym shorts and tank top or t-shirt. I will then watch you walk, stand, and do simple movements to begin to assess your structure. For most of the session you will be lying on a massage table while I work on the first layers of restrictions in your body, usually on your neck, shoulders, back, ribs and hips.

In a first session, we will start to learn how to work together. I will start to learn what your body needs to change, and you will begin to learn to actively participate in your Rolfing® series. Active participation helps you to get more out of Rolfing®. In the beginning, it can be as simple as actively paying attention to bodily sensations during a session; I may also ask you to participate by performing simple movements while I work with your body, or by bringing breath into an area that is receiving input. I will often give experiential/physical homework assignments between sessions, which may include noticing how your feet contact the ground, or how you occupy the space around your hips, your shoulders, or your head. These assignments are designed to help bring awareness to habitual patterns of occupying your body as well as encourage you to experiment with new options and ways of being and moving that are a result of your Rolfing® sessions.  They will be based on the work that is done in each session and will be different every time.  This is a piece of the educational process involved in Rolfing®.

What can I expect from a Rolfing® Ten-Session series?

After the initial session, sessions last about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. Sessions are spaced anywhere from 1-3 weeks apart, and an average series consists of 10-12 sessions.

People commonly feel a difference in alignment, movement, body awareness and/or pain levels immediately during and after each session. These differences accumulate and can become increasingly lasting as the series continues. Each session focuses on a different part or parts of your body, and cumulatively the sessions build upon one another to create thorough and lasting changes.

Rolfing® has the potential to create significant changes in your structure. This process can be accompanied by changes on other levels of your being as well. It is not uncommon for people to experience emotional, mental, social, and/or spiritual growth during the time they are undergoing a Rolfing® series. My focus as your Rolfing® practitioner is always on your physical structure, but I support and encourage growth in other areas of your life.