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Rolfing Structural Integration is a type of deep myofascial release incorporating movement and posture education and was founded by Ida Rolf in the 1950’s. Dr. Rolf was a scientist specializing in biochemistry who came to the conclusion that the body is a continuous network of tissues rather than a collection of separate parts. She recognized that fascia, a connective tissue, is spread throughout the entire body. This tissue surrounds, supports, and penetrates all of the bones, nerves, muscles, and organs in the human body. Rolfing is a registered trademark of the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration.

With continual poor posture, emotional and mental stress certain connective tissues in the body stiffen, shorten and lose their elasticity. Rolfing, which is basically a soft tissue manipulation, works on the fascia to release, realign and to bring balance to the body’s structure so that it is integrated and aligned with gravity. Rolfers use their fingers, elbows and knuckles to open and stretch the fascia to correct misalignment of different parts of the body such as the shoulders and pelvis. This in itself is thought to help bring balance to the nervous system, assists in opening up the breathing, and improves digestion.

Rolfing has the ability to significantly reduce chronic stress and bring change to the recipient’s posture and structure.  Its goal is to restore vitality to the person with more energy, bring flexibility, and to allow the person to have more comfort in their body. Studies have demonstrated that Rolfing creates a more effective use of the muscles, allow the body to conserve that restored energy, and bring about smoother patterns of movement. A study performed  at the University of Maryland showed that Rolfing noticeably reduced the curvature of the vertabral column of subjects with lordosis or swayback. The same study came to the conclusion that it also enhances neurological functioning.

Rolfing is usually performed by a certified practitioner in a series of 10 one-hour sessions until complete integration of the body is achieved.  The practitioner usually begins by evaluating the person’s posture and taking photographs to be able to compare the before and after changes. Each session focuses on different areas of the body with a specific goal. The sessions are cumulative meaning that each one builds on the results on the last session performed.

The muscles, tendons, and fascia are remolded into a looser straighter more aligned shape. This slow restructuring of the body is a procedure performed with firm manipulation of the soft tissue. As the body is remolded, so are its movement patterns as well as bringing more efficient habits that enhance the structural changes. This prevents the likelihood of the return of old tension or for re-injury.

1.  Rolf Institute of Structural Integration
2.  Guide for Structural Integration
3.  encyclopedia.com
4.  Rolfing – Answers.com
5.  Structural Integration Rolf Therapy

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