Rolfing is a form of deep tissue manipulation. The name comes from its inventor, Dr. Rolf, who referred to it as “Structural Integration.”

The idea behind Rolfing is that the body works best when all its parts are in alignment. When the body is out of alignment, it moves in a way that is unbalanced, which can result in discomfort and pain.

Dr. Rolf also believed that this type of disharmony results in the body having to work harder against gravity, giving a person less energy.

Rolfing aims to address these problems by loosening and manipulating fascia, which is the connective tissue that surrounds bones, organs, nerves, and muscles. Practitioners claim that by working with this tissue, they can reorganize parts of the body that are out of alignment and so resolve medical conditions.

Origins of Rolfing

Dr. Rolf began writing about Structural Integration in the 20th century. Her background was in biochemistry. She received a Ph.D. from Columbia University in 1920, before going on to research organic chemistry at the Rockefeller Institute.

Although she did not have a medical degree, Dr. Rolf was a scientist who wanted to find treatments for the chronic conditions with which she and others were living. She began experimenting with alternative health practices, such as yoga and chiropractic, to try to understand the body’s structure.

Using observations from her studies, Dr. Rolf came to believe that the body works best when the bones are in alignment. From there, she developed her theories about Structural Integration.

Rolfing and massage are similar in that they use tissue manipulation to benefit a person’s health. However, they involve different techniques and usually have different goals.

Although massage might promote relaxation, ease muscle tension, or even reduce certain medical symptoms, such as back pain, people do not always use it for medical purposes. When they do, it is usually in addition to other treatments.

Rolfing, on the other hand, aims to treat medical conditions. It also has more elements, and sessions involve more than tissue manipulation. According to the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute website, Rolfing practitioners:

• Palpate: Practitioners touch the tissues through the skin, looking for indications of imbalances in tissue texture, quality, or temperature.
• Discriminate: Next, Rolfing practitioners claim to separate layers of fascia that have become dislodged from the correct position or stuck to muscles.
• Integrate: Finally, the sessions finish with integration, which is when the practitioner aims to improve the relationship between body parts in accordance with Dr. Rolf’s theories about movement and gravity. This can involve movement education as well as tissue manipulation.

Although people can find Rolfing relaxing and cathartic, the Institute says that these benefits are only byproducts of the sessions.

The Dr. Ida Rolf Institute claims that Rolfing helps by:

• releasing tension from connective tissues
• resolving chronic pain
• altering and improving posture
• improving flexibility
• reducing the negative effects of stress
• increasing energy
• enhancing neurological function
• creating emotional harmony

Very few studies confirm these claims.

An older 2014 study looked at whether Rolfing could help with myofascial pain syndrome, which is when a person has pain in the muscles or fascia in a specific location. The pain can occur in response to specific movements or muscle triggers, sometimes in a different part of the body to the location of the trigger.

The study involved 40 participants, 20 of whom received Rolfing therapy while 20 did not. The control group saw no improvements in their pain scores, while the people who received Rolfing therapy saw significant improvements.

However, a 2015 study tested Rolfing in 46 people with lower back pain. The authors concluded that Rolfing did not substantially relieve pain.

This suggests that Rolfing may help with myofascial pain but possibly not with other conditions. However, both studies were very small, so it is difficult to draw firm conclusions from either.

Some people may find Rolfing beneficial, but there is currently no strong scientific evidence that it can cure any medical condition.

Rolfing has similarities with massage, which is generally a safe Trusted Source. However, relying on Rolfing as a treatment for musculoskeletal pain that has no clear cause could pose a risk to a person’s health.

Some causes of musculoskeletal pain are progressive, meaning that they get worse over time. Others, such as osteoporosis, require medical treatment to prevent complications.

If a person has new or persistent pain, they should not try Rolfing without speaking with a doctor first. Only a doctor can diagnose the root cause of the pain.

Rolfing involves a set of sessions known as the Ten-Series. These sessions focus on releasing tension in different areas of the body before moving into the integration phase.

The Ten-Series includes the following steps: The recipe

Technique

Rolfers posit that they manipulate the body’s fascial layers.^[24][25] Rolfing also uses a combination of active and passive movement retraining.^[26]

Rolfing is typically performed in a progression of 10 sessions, sometimes called “the recipe”.^[2] The first three sessions of the protocol focus on superficial tissues, the next four focus on deeper tissues and specifically the pelvis, and the final sessions address the whole body.^[8][14][17]

A session typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. The recipient wears undergarments.^[22] Positions for the work include lying on a table, sitting, and standing.^[19]

Rolfing treatments are sometimes painful.^[5] For adults, there may be moments of intense sensation during treatment or soreness afterward.^[20] However, the technique can be done gently enough for children and the elderly.^[27] Rolf believed fascia tightens as a protective mechanism and therefore thought an aggressive approach could be counter-productive.^[28]

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Rolfing typically consists of a series of ten sessions, each building upon the progress made in the previous session. Here’s an overview of the ten Rolfing sessions:

1. Session 1: “Opening the Sleeve” -Sleeve, meaning the superficial fascia under the skin layer and the superficial muscles and some nerves. The first session focuses on establishing a foundation for the series. The Rolfer assesses the client’s posture, movement patterns, and areas of tension. Techniques are used to release the superficial fascial layers and begin creating space for improved alignment.
2. Session 2: “Balancing the Foundation” – This session aims to bring balance to the lower body, particularly the feet, legs, and pelvis. The Rolfer works on releasing restrictions and aligning the legs and pelvis to improve stability and support.
3. Session 3: “Lengthening the Sides” – The focus shifts to the sides of the body, addressing imbalances between the ribcage, pelvis, and legs. The goal is to create more length and openness in the torso, allowing for improved breathing and better posture.
4. Session 4: “Unwinding the Arms” – This session targets the arms, hands, and shoulders. The Rolfer works on releasing tension and restrictions in the upper body, promoting better mobility and alignment.
5. Session 5: “Releasing the Neck and Shoulders” – Here, attention is given to the neck, head, and shoulders. Techniques are used to release tension in the neck and shoulders, improving head and neck alignment and relieving chronic patterns of tension.
6. Session 6: “Integrating the Upper and Lower Body” – This session focuses on integrating the work done in the previous sessions. The Rolfer works to establish a harmonious connection between the upper and lower body, promoting overall balance and coordination.
7. Session 7: “Balancing the Core” – The core, including the abdomen, back, and pelvic floor, is the focus of this session. The Rolfer works to release tension and improve alignment in these areas, supporting a strong and stable core.
8. Session 8: “Creating Ease in the Breath” – Breathing patterns are addressed in this session. The Rolfer helps the client develop a fuller, more relaxed breath by releasing restrictions in the chest, ribs, and diaphragm.
9. Session 9: “Integration and Structural Alignment” – The aim of this session is to further integrate the body’s structures and address any remaining imbalances. The Rolfer works to refine overall alignment, promoting greater ease of movement.
10. Session 10: “Integration and Closure” – The final session serves as a conclusion to the series. The Rolfer evaluates the progress made throughout the sessions and works to solidify the changes in the body. This session often focuses on the client’s goals and provides guidance for maintaining the results achieved.

It’s important to note that while this sequence is a general guideline, the specific approach may vary depending on the individual needs and goals of the client. Each session typically lasts around 60-90 minutes, and the ten-session series is designed to create lasting changes in the body’s structure and movement patterns.

 

 

 

DETAILS of the 10 Sessions

• Session one: The first session focuses on loosening and rebalancing the top layers of connective tissue in the neck, diaphragm, rib cage, arms, spine, upper legs, and hamstrings.

Session 1: Open The Superficial Fascia

Session One has the intention of the “Breath.” Breath is the most important item we need in order to live. We can go days without food and water, but we cannot survive after 3 minutes with no breath. (Please do not try to hold your breath for more than 3 minutes, it could cause brain damage.) The breath will usually go to the area in our body with the least resistance. Then manipulate the fascia and ask for movement to get your breath to go where it normally doesn’t. This will help get more oxygen and blood flow into the body.

Some general techniques that may be used in the first session of Rolfing:

1. Structural assessment: The Rolfer will begin by conducting a structural assessment of your body, observing your posture, movement patterns, and any areas of tension or imbalance. This assessment helps the practitioner understand your body’s unique structure and identify areas that require attention.
2. Client history and goals: The Rolfer will discuss your medical history, previous injuries, and any specific goals or concerns you have regarding your body. This information helps guide the session and allows the practitioner to tailor the techniques to your needs.
3. Palpation: The practitioner will use their hands to palpate and feel the tissues and structures of your body, such as muscles, fascia, and joints. This allows them to assess the quality of the tissues, locate areas of tension or restriction, and determine the appropriate techniques to use.
4. Soft tissue manipulation: Rolfing typically involves deep tissue manipulation and release. The practitioner may use their hands, fingers, knuckles, or elbows to apply pressure and work on the fascia, which is a connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles and other structures. Techniques such as kneading, stretching, and mobilization may be employed to release tension and improve tissue mobility.
5. Movement education: Rolfers often incorporate movement education and awareness exercises during the session. This may involve guiding you through specific movements or postures that help you become more aware of your body and develop healthier movement patterns.
6. Homework and self-care recommendations: At the end of the session, the Rolfer may provide you with personalized recommendations for self-care exercises, stretches, or lifestyle adjustments that can support the changes initiated during the session. These recommendations are intended to enhance the effectiveness of the Rolfing process between sessions.

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We begin by opening the superficial fascia, giving particular attention to its attachments at bony margins (e.g., the iliac crest and scapular spine) and to regions where it limits the position of major bony segments (e.g., superficial rib fascia and femoral head fascia). This is essentially preparatory, as a restriction in this outermost layer limits changes in layers below.

Structurally, we differentiate the thorax from the shoulder girdle, the thorax from the pelvis, and the pelvis from the legs. This differentiation is a precondition for a balanced and palintonic arrangement among these major segments. For example, as femoral rotation approaches neutral, the pelvis has greater independence from the legs and can find better balance over the feet. This, in turn, allows the pelvis to provide greater support for the thorax.

Functionally, Session 1 frees the breath. The oncogenic logic is evident: a newborn’s first act is a deep breath. Improving the pelvis as a base of support enables adaptable sagittal plane movement of the upper body’s center of gravity (at the approximate level of T4), which Rolfers call G-prime (G′).

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interosseous_membrane_of_leg#:~:text=The%20interosseous%20membrane%20of%20the,the%20back%20of%20the%20leg.

The interosseous membrane of the leg (middle tibiofibular ligament) extends between the interosseous crests of the tibia and fibula, helps stabilize the Tib-Fib relationship and separates the muscles on the front from those on the back of the leg.

• Session two: The second session works on the arms, rib cage, diaphragm, upper legs, hamstrings, spine, and neck, with the goal of providing stability through balancing the foot and lower leg muscles.

Session 2: Establish A Base Of Support

Session Two is all about our foundation and support for the body. This session involves the feet, lower legs, and knees. This session may make the feet wider for those who need it. Our feet are not meant for shoes, they should be gripping and pushing off of the ground. Our lower legs act as shock absorbers for the rest of the body. If the lower legs are too tight, then the knees and hips will be compromised.

The general techniques used in session two of Rolfing. Please note that specific techniques may vary depending on the practitioner and the individual needs of the client.

1. Assessment: The Rolfer begins by assessing the changes and adaptations that occurred in the client’s body since the previous session. This assessment helps Rolfer identify areas of tension, misalignment, and restricted movement that need attention during the session.
2. Structural Integration: Rolfing aims to create better alignment and balance within the body’s structure. In session two, the Rolfer may continue working on the superficial layers of the body, addressing issues such as postural imbalances, misalignments, and tensions. The Rolfer may use their hands, fingers, knuckles, or elbows to apply pressure and manipulate the soft tissues.
3. Fascial Manipulation: Rolfing emphasizes the manipulation of the body’s fascia, which is a network of connective tissues that surrounds muscles, bones, and organs. The Rolfer may use various techniques to release tension and adhesions within the fascia, such as direct pressure, stretching, and kneading.
4. Movement Education: Rolfing sessions often involve movement education to help clients develop greater body awareness and improve their posture and movement patterns. The Rolfer may guide the client through specific exercises or movements to encourage more efficient and integrated movement.
5. Client Participation: Rolfing is an interactive process, and clients are often encouraged to actively participate in the session. This can involve providing feedback to the Rolfer, expressing sensations or emotions that arise during the session, and actively engaging in movements or exercises.

PLUS-

The upright body needs sound and adaptable feet. Loaded with mechanoreceptors, the feet gather information for the entire body to maintain balance. As the fascial system as a whole responds to gravity, better feet allow greater ease throughout the body. Session 2 differentiates and makes adaptable the myofascial and bones of the feet and lower legs, and begins to release fascial restrictions of posterior structures such as hamstrings and spinal erectors.

Structurally, Session 2 balances the feet from front to back, and from the lateral arch to the medial arch (through the transverse arch); restores resilience to the interosseus membrane of the lower leg; and organizes the medial, lateral, and posterior compartments of the lower leg. This brings greater order to G (the lower body’s center of gravity, located at approximately L4) by giving the lower body a better place to rest its weight.

Functionally, it decouples the foot’s intrinsic muscles from the extrinsic muscles crossing the ankle, allowing the toes movement independent of the ankles and improving the propulsion phase of the gait. Stimulation of the intrinsic muscles improves contact with the ground and introduces movement in the frontal plane by restoring the interplay between the cuboid and navicular bones. This enhances the ability of the feet (in conjunction with the eyes, inner ear, and temporomandibular joint) (Bricot 2001) to maintain dynamic equilibrium.

Work on the superficial spinal erectors begins the task of optimizing the transition point for the contralateral spinal movement, ideally located between T8 and T10. A higher transition produces a long or exaggerated lordosis, which dissipates the impulse coming from the legs at the level of the abdomen. This manifests as excessive motion in the pelvic girdle and legs relative to that of the shoulder girdle and arms. Conversely, a transition below T8/T10 produces relatively flat lumbar and a long or exaggerated kyphosis. This configuration cannot efficiently transform the impulse from the legs into contralateral movement at the axial level, and the shoulder girdle and arms will compensate with excessive motion relative to that of the pelvic girdle and legs.

• Session three: In this session, the practitioner aims to understand how a person’s head, shoulder girdle, and hips line up when the person is standing.

• Session Three is about the “Vertical Line.” When looking at a client’s profile, the Rolfer will line up the ear to shoulder to hip to knee to ankle. This will create a vertical line and at the same time correct any twisting that may be happening. This session also starts to get deeper by visiting the side of the psoas muscles and the quadratus lumborum muscles. This session balances the front and back of our bodies.

A general overview of what might be involved in a typical Session 3 of Rolfing:

1. Assessment: The practitioner will begin by assessing your body’s alignment and movement patterns. They may observe your standing posture, walking, and any specific issues or concerns you have.
2. Focused Work: Session 3 typically involves working with the lower body, including the legs, feet, and hips. The practitioner will use their hands, fingers, knuckles, and sometimes forearms to apply gentle pressure and manipulate the soft tissues, fascia, and muscles in these areas.
3. Myofascial Release: Rolfing emphasizes the release and reorganization of fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and supports the muscles, bones, and organs. The practitioner may use various myofascial release techniques to stretch and release tension in the fascia, helping to improve mobility and alignment.
4. Movement Education: Rolfing aims to create long-term changes in your posture and movement habits. During Session 3, the practitioner may provide movement education and guidance, suggesting exercises or stretches to enhance the integration of the structural changes achieved in the session.
5. Integration and Balancing: The session will conclude with efforts to integrate the changes made and bring balance to your body. The practitioner may work on integrating the work done in Session 3 with the previous sessions, creating a more balanced and aligned structure overall.

• Session four: This session focuses on the areas between the inside arch of a person’s foot and the bottom of their lower pelvis.

• Sessions 4, 5, 6, and 7 are the “Core Sessions.” These sessions get deeper into the body, differentiating muscles that are closer to bones, organizing the digestive system, balancing the pelvis, and loosening fascia in and around our head.
• Session Four organizes the inner midline of the legs and up into the pelvic floor. This session helps with any rotations someone may have with their legs while standing. This session will create a much larger stride while walking or running.

A general overview of the goals and techniques commonly employed throughout the Rolfing series.

1. Assessment: Before each session, the Rolfer will assess your body’s structure and alignment to identify areas of tension, imbalance, or restriction.
2. Fascial Manipulation: Rolfing primarily focuses on manipulating the fascia, a connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs. Techniques such as myofascial release, deep tissue manipulation, and sustained pressure are used to release tension and adhesions within the fascia.
3. Movement Education: Rolfing aims to enhance body awareness and improve movement patterns. The Rolfer may guide you through specific movements, exercises, or body awareness exercises to help you develop more efficient and balanced movement patterns.
4. Body Segment Integration: Rolfing works on the body as a whole, considering the relationship between different body segments. In session 4, the Rolfer may focus on integrating the work done in the previous sessions and addressing any imbalances or restrictions that may arise as the body starts to realign.
5. Breathwork: Breath awareness and integration are often emphasized in Rolfing. The Rolfer may guide you in breathing exercises to enhance relaxation, release tension, and support the realignment of the body.
6. Client-Centered Approach: Rolfing sessions are tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. The Rolfer will take into account your specific concerns and work with you to address them during the session.

• Session five: The fifth session aims to balance the surface and deep abdominal muscles with the curve of the back.

• Session Five has the main focus on the “Psoas” and the entire front of the body. This session can also help with digestion. The psoas muscles are connected from the front side of the spine and then to the lesser trochanter of the femur bones. When this muscle is working properly, it can initiate leg movement and act as a stabilizer for the body. It will feel like our legs go all the way up to the diaphragm.

Some common techniques that may be employed during the fifth session of Rolfing:

1. Fascial Manipulation: Rolfers often use various manual techniques to manipulate the fascia, which is the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs. This may involve applying gentle pressure or traction to release tension and restrictions in the fascia.
2. Segmental Analysis: During the fifth session, the Rolfer may assess specific segments of the body, such as the head, neck, and shoulders, as well as the pelvic region. They may evaluate the alignment, mobility, and balance of these segments to identify any areas that require attention.
3. Core Integration: Rolfing aims to enhance the integration and coordination of the body’s core muscles. The Rolfer may use techniques to engage and activate the deep core muscles, such as the transverse abdominis and pelvic floor muscles, to improve stability and support in the trunk.
4. Movement Education: Rolfers often provide movement education and postural awareness exercises to help clients develop more efficient movement patterns. This may involve guiding the client through specific movements, such as walking or sitting while emphasizing proper alignment and body mechanics.
5. Breath Work: Rolfing sessions may incorporate breath work to facilitate relaxation, enhance body awareness, and encourage the release of tension. The practitioner may guide the client through breathing exercises that promote deep diaphragmatic breathing and help to relieve restrictions in the chest and ribcage.
6. Integration and Balancing: In the fifth session, the Rolfer will work on integrating the changes made in the previous sessions and ensuring that the body’s structure is balanced and aligned as a whole. They may address any remaining areas of tension or imbalance to further improve overall posture and movement.

• Session six: This session works on movement in the legs to build support for the pelvis and lower back.

• Session Six has the intention of the “Sacrum” and the entire back side of the body. The yogis also say the sacrum is sacred, because the sacrum holds a lot of emotions. The sacrum is the bottom of the spinal column. It should be independent of the hip bones. When our breath is flowing through the spine, the sacrum will move.

• Session seven: This session works on the person’s head and neck.

• Session Seven involves the head and neck. This session also consists of intra-oral and intra-nasal work. This session will place our heads back onto our bodies and it completes the “Core Sessions.”

Some common techniques that may be employed during session 7 of Rolfing:

1. Review and assessment: The practitioner will begin by reviewing the progress made in previous sessions and assessing the changes in the client’s body structure and movement patterns.
2. Pelvic balancing: Session 7 often involves working with the pelvis to address any imbalances or restrictions. The practitioner may use hands-on techniques to release tension, mobilize the pelvis, and encourage better alignment.
3. Leg and footwork: Rolfing recognizes the importance of the feet and their impact on the overall body structure. The practitioner may focus on releasing tension and realigning the legs and feet through various manual techniques, such as myofascial release, stretching, and gentle joint mobilization.
4. Core integration: Session 7 often involves integrating the work done in previous sessions by connecting the core structures of the body, including the pelvis, abdomen, and ribcage. The practitioner may use deep tissue manipulation, movement education, and breath awareness to enhance core integration and support a more balanced posture.
5. Movement exploration: Rolfing aims to create lasting changes in movement patterns. During session 7, the practitioner may guide the client through movement exercises, such as walking or specific functional movements, to encourage the integration of the structural changes achieved in previous sessions.
6. Body awareness and education: Rolfing emphasizes the importance of body awareness and self-care. The practitioner may provide insights and education on posture, movement habits, and exercises that can support the client’s ongoing progress outside of the session.

• Sessions eight and nine: Both of these sessions focus on the integration of movement in various areas of the body to enhance coordination.

• Sessions 8, 9, and 10 are the “Integrative Sessions.” This group of sessions completes any issues that are remaining and brings the client back into the world.
• Sessions Eight and Nine are interchangeable as either an upper or lower session. These sessions get the lumbodorsal hinge to lengthen and have space, get the hips balanced and moving independently, bring contralateral movement with the shoulders and legs, and get the head to slightly bounce while walking.

A general overview of the typical techniques and goals in Rolfing session 8.

1. Assessment: The session typically begins with a brief assessment of the client’s posture, movement patterns, and any specific issues or goals they have mentioned. The Rolfer may observe how the client stands, walks, and moves to gain insights into their body’s alignment and movement patterns.
2. Fascial Manipulation: Rolfing primarily focuses on the manipulation of fascia, which is the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs. The Rolfer uses their hands, fingers, knuckles, or elbows to apply precise and targeted pressure, stretching, or manipulation to release tension and restrictions in the fascia.
3. Movement Education: Rolfing often incorporates movement education to help clients develop greater awareness of their bodies and improve their movement patterns. The Rolfer may guide the client through specific exercises or movements designed to promote better posture, coordination, and body alignment.
4. Integration: Rolfing aims to create greater integration and balance within the body. The Rolfer may work on different areas of the body during session 8 to address specific structural relationships and patterns of tension. The techniques used may vary depending on the client’s needs and Rolfer’s assessment.
5. Breath and Emotional Awareness: Rolfing recognizes the connection between the body and emotions. The Rolfer may guide the client in exploring their breath patterns and emotional responses during the session. This can help the client release emotional holding patterns that may be contributing to physical tension.

A general overview of what you might expect during this stage of the process. Please keep in mind that different Rolfers may have their own variations and adaptations of the techniques. It’s best to consult with your specific Rolfer for precise information about your session 9.

1. Assessment: At the beginning of Session 9, the Rolfer will assess your progress and take into account the changes that have occurred in your body throughout the previous sessions.
2. Continuation of Previous Work: The Rolfer will continue addressing any unresolved issues from previous sessions and work on further releasing and aligning the fascial and muscular structures in your body.
3. Integration and Balancing: Session 9 typically focuses on integrating the work done in previous sessions and ensuring that the changes made are balanced throughout the body. The Rolfer may work on connecting different areas, releasing any remaining restrictions, and encouraging improved overall alignment.
4. Targeted Areas: Depending on your individual needs and the patterns of tension and misalignment in your body, specific areas may be targeted during Session 9. This could include addressing issues in the lower back, hips, legs, or any other region requiring attention.
5. Movement Education: Rolfing often includes movement education to help you become more aware of your body and how to move with improved alignment and efficiency. In Session 9, you might receive guidance on specific movement exercises or practices that can support the changes made during the Rolfing series.

• Session ten: The last session focuses on integration, order, and balance throughout the body.

• Session Ten is the final session. This session addresses any minor hiccups that may be occurring. This session is to bring closure, holism, adaptability, palitonicity, support, and continuity to the body.
• Once the 10-Series is completed, the body will keep integrating the work for 4 months to a year depending on your age. Your body will not completely revert back to your old pattern. You may need to have a tune-up session once a year to keep your new pattern flowing.

A general idea of what might be involved in this session. It’s important to consult with a certified Rolfing practitioner for accurate and personalized information.

Session 10 of Rolfing, also known as the “Integration” session, is usually the final session in the series. Its primary goal is to integrate the changes and realignments made in the previous sessions, ensuring that the body maintains its new balance and improved functionality. Here are some techniques that might be incorporated:

1. Movement Assessment: The practitioner will observe your movement patterns to assess how your body has adapted to the changes made in the previous sessions. They may ask you to walk, perform specific movements, or engage in activities related to your concerns or goals.
2. Structural Integration: The practitioner may use hands-on techniques to further refine and integrate the structural changes made in previous sessions. This may involve working with connective tissues, releasing restrictions, and improving the overall alignment of the body.
3. Breath and Awareness: Session 10 often includes focusing on the breath and cultivating body awareness. The practitioner may guide you through exercises or movements that help you develop a deeper connection with your body and enhance your ability to maintain the new alignment.
4. Movement Education: The practitioner may provide you with specific exercises, stretches, or movement cues to support the continued integration of the work done during the Rolfing series. These exercises are often tailored to your individual needs and may aim to improve coordination, stability, and overall body awareness.
5. Client Education: In this session, the practitioner may also provide you with information and guidance on self-care practices, such as ergonomic adjustments, postural awareness, and movement habits that can help you maintain the benefits achieved through the Rolfing series.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rolfing

PLUS

Rolfing, also known as Structural Integration, is a form of bodywork that aims to improve posture, movement, and overall well-being by manipulating the body’s fascia—the connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and organs. Rolfing typically involves a series of ten sessions, known as “the Ten Series,” which are designed to systematically address and reorganize the body’s structure. Here is a general overview of the ten Rolfing treatments:

1. Session 1: “Opening the Breath” or “Sleeve” – This session focuses on increasing awareness of breath and initiating the process of releasing tension in the ribcage, diaphragm, and torso.
2. Session 2: “Getting Grounded” or “Foundation” – The goal of this session is to establish a solid foundation by working on the feet, legs, and pelvis. It helps to improve balance, stability, and alignment.
3. Session 3: “Front Line” or “Sagittal Plane” – This session addresses the front of the body, including the abdomen, thighs, and psoas muscles. It aims to balance the relationship between the front and back of the body.

The sagittal plane is defined as an imaginary plane running from the top to the bottom of the human body which results in the formation of 2 different portions- left and right portions of the body. For easy understanding, you can imagine slicing your body from top to bottom into two halves.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sagittal_plane

1. Session 4: “Back Line” or “Extension” – This session focuses on the posterior chain, including the back, hips, and legs. It aims to release tension and promote extension and lengthening.
2. Session 5: “Integration of Breath and Core” – This session works on integrating breath and core support, emphasizing the relationship between the breath, diaphragm, and the muscles of the torso.
3. Session 6: “Shoulders, Arms, and Neck” or “Superficial Front Line” – This session targets the upper body, addressing the shoulders, arms, neck, and chest. It aims to release tension and improve posture in this area.
4. Session 7: “Head, Neck, and Jaw” – This session focuses on releasing tension in the head, neck, and jaw, promoting freedom of movement and alignment in the cranial region.
5. Session 8: “Getting Centered” – This session aims to establish balance and alignment in the body’s midline, addressing the spine, pelvis, and ribs.
6. Session 9: “Integrating the Side Lines” – This session works on integrating the side of the body, including the waist, hips, ribs, and arms. It helps to promote balance and coordination.
7. Session 10: “Completion and Integration” – The final session of the series aims to integrate the changes and adjustments made throughout the previous sessions, promoting overall alignment, balance, and well-being.

It’s important to note that while these ten sessions form the traditional Rolfing series, the specific approach and techniques may vary slightly depending on the Rolfing practitioner and the individual needs of the client.

The Dr. Ida Rolf Institute claims that a person receiving Rolfing therapy may feel some discomfort because the technique aims to relieve tension deep within the connective tissue.

However, the organization notes that Rolfing should not hurt or cause additional pain to those with preexisting pain.

Below, we answer some common questions about Rolfing therapy.

Is Rolfing covered by insurance?

Many health insurance companies do not cover Rolfing therapy, although there may be some exceptions.

How much does Rolfing cost?

Rolfing costs vary depending on location, but anecdotal evidence suggests that they usually fall within the range of $100–300 per session.

Can you do Rolfing yourself?

It is not possible for a layperson to try Rolfing themselves at home. However, they can try self-massage. Devices such as massage balls and foam rollers can also release tension in muscles and connective tissue.

A person should always speak with a doctor before trying an alternative or at-home treatment for a medical condition. Massage and myofascial release are not appropriate for all types of musculoskeletal pain.

Rolfing is a type of therapy that involves deep manipulation of the body’s connective tissues. It may help alleviate both muscular and psychological tension to realign and restore balance in the body. The course of therapy involves a series of 10 sessions, each of which has different areas of focus.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/rolfing#definition

Rolfing, also known as Structural Integration, is a form of bodywork that focuses on improving the alignment and functioning of the body through hands-on manipulation of the soft tissues and fascia. The Rolfing Ten-Series is a specific protocol developed by Dr. Ida Rolf, the creator of Rolfing, to address postural imbalances and restore optimal movement patterns. It consists of ten sessions that are designed to systematically reorganize and realign the body.

Each session in the Rolfing Ten-Series focuses on a different aspect of the body’s structure, building upon the progress made in the previous sessions. The goal is to release tension, lengthen shortened tissues, and create better balance and integration throughout the body. The sessions typically last about 60 to 90 minutes each and are spaced at regular intervals, usually one to two weeks apart.

The benefits of the Rolfing Ten-Series can be significant for individuals seeking improvement in posture, movement, and overall well-being. Some potential benefits include:

1. Improved posture: Rolfing aims to bring the body into better alignment, which can lead to improved posture and a more balanced and centered stance.
2. Increased flexibility and range of motion: By addressing areas of tension and restricted movement, Rolfing can help increase flexibility and range of motion, allowing for more efficient and comfortable movement.
3. Enhanced body awareness: Rolfing can help individuals develop a greater sense of body awareness, enabling them to recognize and correct movement patterns that contribute to pain or dysfunction.
4. Pain relief: Many people report reduced pain and discomfort as a result of Rolfing. By addressing imbalances and releasing tension in the body, Rolfing may alleviate chronic pain conditions and improve overall comfort.
5. Emotional and psychological well-being: Rolfing is known to have a holistic approach, and clients often report feeling more grounded, relaxed, and emotionally balanced after completing the Ten-Series. The deep touch and manual therapy involved in Rolfing sessions can promote a sense of relaxation and release.

However, it’s important to consider potential risks and limitations associated with the Rolfing Ten-Series:

1. Temporary discomfort: Some individuals may experience temporary discomfort or soreness during or after Rolfing sessions. This discomfort is usually a result of releasing deep-seated tension and can be alleviated with proper communication and feedback to the practitioner.
2. Emotional release: Rolfing can sometimes trigger emotional responses as the body releases stored tension and trauma. While this can be therapeutic, it’s important to work with a skilled and experienced practitioner who can provide appropriate support during these moments.
3. Individual response and expectations: The results of Rolfing can vary from person to person, and individual responses depend on factors such as existing conditions, overall health, and commitment to the process. It’s essential to have realistic expectations and understand that Rolfing may not be a “quick fix” for all issues.
4. Not suitable for certain conditions: Rolfing may not be recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as acute injuries, severe osteoporosis, or certain connective tissue disorders. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified practitioner and inform them about any pre-existing conditions before beginning the Ten-Series.

As with any bodywork modality, it’s important to choose a certified and experienced Rolfing practitioner who has completed the necessary training and adheres to professional standards. They will have a comprehensive understanding of the body’s structure and function and will be able to tailor the sessions to the individual’s needs and limitations.

Overall, the Rolfing Ten-Series can offer substantial benefits in terms of posture, movement, and well-being. However, it’s essential to approach it as a holistic process and work in collaboration with a skilled practitioner to achieve the best possible outcomes