Questions about Structural Integration, Rolf and Rolfing

Structural Integration - Commonly Asked Questions

So are you a Rolfer? Do you practice Rolfing? Acutally, what is Rolf?

While I am not a “Rolfer,” my focus is on providing Structural Integration Therapy for pain relief and wellness, which is based on the work of Tom Myers and Ida Rolf, a biochemist and the creator of Structural Integration or “Rolfing“.

Rolfing is a specific, trademarked Structural Integration program, but the concepts and foundation for all SI work is essentially one in the same and founded in her teachings and discoveries. So while I am not a certified Rolfer – that is in effect what I do – I just choose to do so under my own set of combined techniques.

How Much Does a SI Session Cost?

My fee for a dedicated hour and a half session is $180.

What will it feel like to experience SI? Does it Hurt?

Working with fascia and the surrounding tissue is similar to full body, deep massage and will vary in sensation and feeling depending upon injuries to the area. Feelings can range from pleasurable release and relaxation to momentary discomfort and perhaps even some pain, though usually temporary as tension is released.

While it is purely based on the physical response of the individual, it is not an abrupt or jarring experience such as chiropractic. Think touching, deep tissue massage, releasing, and opening up – releasing tension, stress, and worry within the physical self. Some patients may feel malaise after sessions which can be related to a release of toxins into the system. Yet others feel immediate refreshment and postural improvements immediately. Expect to lie in various positions on a massage table and to be massaged with purpose (as opposed to focusing on pleasurable sensations, we are working on the underlying tissues). Some people drift to sleep during their treatments, it depends on the individual.

What benefits should I expect?

While I would love to promise you that every negative energy in your life dissolve into pain-free bliss, SI is a very individual process with varying success rates. Expect posture improvements, strength and flexibility improvement, and (hopefully) pain relief (of varying degrees) for those who need it.

One of the general principles of SI is to work with the bodies response to basic gravity that has a tendency to pull down – SI works to release tension and straighten the core so that your body works itself with purpose against the forces of gravity, tall strong and confident. Structural Integration is a very personal process but provides long-term, lasting benefits to those who respond well to the treatment (which is just about everyone!).

Is this only for people with injuries?

Absolutely not. While one common goal is to provide pain relief, anyone can benefit from opening up fascia and strengthening their core structure. I have worked with injured people, the elderly, and athletes all with varying degrees of improvement. One of the most common areas I help to improve deals with scar tissue, often resulting from injury or surgery. Much like Physical Therapy or Massage, there are a variety of benefits regardless of your current physical condition.