Rolfing Structural Integration – 10 Series

Dr. Ida Rolf developed a unique approach to structural integration, often referred to as “Rolfing”, which involves a series of ten sessions designed to systematically realign and balance the body’s structure. Each session focuses on different areas of the body with specific goals and techniques. Here’s a breakdown of the 10-series Rolfing sessions:

• Session 1: Free the Breath: This session typically focuses on the fascia of the ribcage and shoulder girdle. The goal is to create more space in the chest and allow for easier breathing. Practitioners often work on the rib cage, diaphragm, and other areas related to breathing.
• Session 2: Plant your Feet: This session addresses the relationship between the legs and the pelvis. Practitioners work on the feet, calf, thigh, hips, and lower back to establish better alignment and support from the ground up.
• Session 3: Spread your Wings: Here, the focus is on the lateral line of the body and your front/back balance. This session will also focus on the horizontal alignment of your joints. Practitioners work on the outside line of the body, from ankle to ear.
• Session 4: Trust your Legs: This session focuses on the inner line of the legs and the pelvic girdle. The goal is to enhance walking mechanics further and release tension in the pelvic girdle.
• Session 5: Love your belly: Here, the focus shifts to the deep core structures, including the abdomen and the spine. The goal is to integrate these core areas more effectively with the rest of the body. Bring awareness to the front of the spine, abdominal viscera and to the core’s diaphragms
• Session 6: Free the Sacrum: This session establishes the dual function of the sacrum as the keystone of the pelvis and as the bottom of the spine. Organize the posterior line of the body and bring awareness to the clients back of body.
• Session 7: Put the Head On: This session focuses on the entire spine, aiming to release tension and improve alignment from the cervical (neck) to the sacral (lower back) regions. This session also focuses on the head and neck attachments to the thorax. Internasal and inter-oral work may be done in this session.
• Session 8: Integrating the Upper/Lower Body: This session aims to integrate the work done on the legs and pelvis with the arms and shoulders. Focus on the less organized girdle to create balance and alignment throughout.
• Session 9: Integrating the Whole Body: At this point, the focus is on integrating all previous work into a unified whole. Practitioners address any remaining issues and ensure that the body moves as a coordinated unit. Looking for unity in opposition and connected length throughout the body.
• Session 10: Unleash Uniform Brilliance: The final session emphasizes maintaining the results achieved and organizing horizontals tissue. Prepare the client for assimilation and manifestation. Often involves discussing posture, movement patterns, and exercises to support ongoing structural integration.

Each session typically builds upon the progress made in the previous ones, aiming to achieve better overall balance, alignment, and freedom of movement throughout the body. Rolfing is considered a holistic approach to wellness, addressing both physical alignment and the body’s energetic and emotional aspects.