What is Rolfing?
Rolfing, also called structural integration, is a form of bodywork and movement education developed over 50 years of study and practice by Dr. Ida Rolf, a biochemist.
Why Should Someone Try Rolfing?
Imagine you are wearing clothes that are too tight, or a wetsuit that is too small. You would feel quite a bit better if you took that wetsuit off, or found some clothes that didn’t bind your movement. Your body can start to feel this way when it is unnecessarily tense. Movement becomes limited and stiff. Even simple activities like sitting, sleeping and breathing can feel restricted, uncomfortable, and heavy.
Rolfing can work to relieve unnecessary tension in the body and to improve the efficiency of movement and postural habits. This is done by making changes to the local musculature and connective tissues as well as the central nervous system. The result is more efficient and comfortable movement and a greater sense of physical well being.
Who Gets Rolfing?
Rolfing is for anyone who wants to improve the way they feel and move. Although it can be used to treat a specific condition, it is also generally beneficial thing to do, like getting a good night’s sleep, exercising, or eating a nutritious meal. It is estimated that more than 1 million people have received Rolfing work, including professional athletes from the NFL and NBA, dancers, martial artists, and many people who sit behind computers all day.
What Does Rolfing Feel Like?
One distinguishing feature of Rolfing is the hands on technique called myofascial release, which involves slow, sustained and sometimes deep pressure with fingers, forearms or elbows. Contrary to what you may have heard, this is not painful! Many of my clients will remark after the first session: “that felt great. I thought this was supposed to hurt?!”
A Global Approach
Rolfing is also distinct from other forms of bodywork in that it takes a global or systems approach to understanding and treating movement and pain issues. For example, if you have pain in your knee, this is not necessarily the “fault” of the knee. Instead, the knee may be suffering because of movement restrictions in the foot, ankle, hip, or even opposite shoulder. In other words, Rolfers look at pain or dysfunction in a particular area as a manifestation of imbalance in the whole system, rather than a problem localized in that particular area.
More Questions?
I would be happy to answer any other questions you have about Rolfing and whether it can help you achieve your goals. Click here to schedule a FREE twenty minute consultation in person at my Seattle office or by telephone. There is no obligation to make an appointment. I truly enjoy talking with people about their movement goals and sharing my knowledge and advice.
