What is Rolfing®?
A Rolfing® Structural Integrator works primarily with connective tissue, also referred to as fascia, in a systematic approach that reorganizes the body in gravity. This systematic approach can be accomplished over ten to twelve sessions of manual therapy. The ten sessions are broken down into three categories which are used to describe the work's strategic goals. These categories are called “the sleeve sessions”, “the core sessions” and “integration”.
The first three sessions work within “the sleeve” which is located in the body's outer layer of superficial fascia. In this area, the client and the practitioner begin to differentiate between connective tissue relationships while unraveling restrictions within the superficial fascia. This differentiation allows for more options in function, ease and alignment.
The second group are “the core sessions”. These four sessions within the core group work with deep fascial structures and structural relationships within the body. Again here the goal is to differentiate the working relationships within these areas which help to reestablish internal balance and function within the supportive layers of the body as well as within the body's visceral and prevertebral space.
The final three sessions of the ten series are “the integration sessions”. These sessions work with the body as a whole integrating the connective tissue into working relationships throughout the body. In this manner, the practitioner and client work together to create supportive functions throughout the system while assessing postural habits and alignment patterns.
Through this collaborative process between the client and practitioner one hopes to create an experiential process that allows the client to connect to their body on deeper levels. Through this increased awareness the client can assess their habits and posture while continuing to transform themselves. Some refer to this independent time of transformation as sessions eleven and twelve. The eleventh and twelfth sessions can be described as the three months to year process of independent integration that happens on the client’s own as they move through their life and allow the body to process the transformation that has taken place.
After the ten series and integration, the client is able to continue with “post ten sessions”. Sometimes described as “touch-up work” these sessions can be performed independently or within a group of two or three. These independent sessions continue to adjust the body and assess habitual patterns on an as-needed basis up to the client's discretion.
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Best,
Vanessa