Structural Integration

Through soft tissue manipulation, movement and breath reeducation, it releases tension and strain realigning the whole structure systematically evoking order along the segments of the body (feet, legs, pelvis, torso and head) it allows the body to naturally balance around the gravitational field of the earth. Leaving the body more stable and flexible, enabling it to better cope with physical, mental and even emotional challenges.

Whether that’s related to repetitive movement injuries, trauma, bad posture or accidents, Structural Integration can make you feel whole and integrated.

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration offers excellent results for:  

• Muscle Pain and Tension  
• Posture Improvement  
• Headaches
• Low back pain
• Flexibility
• Optimal join function
• Repetitive motion injuries
• Neck and Shoulder Pain
• Athletic Performance Improvement
• Feet, Knee and hip problems
• Energy Increment 

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration

Posture can dramatically be improved through the Rolf Method of Structural Integration process. Incorrect posture over time can lead to very limited body functions. We see posture as something dynamic instead of a correct body position is more like the ability to move effortless from one position to another with grace and strength. 

The plan: 

• Identify and release restrictions  
• Realign each segment of the body (feet, legs, pelvis, torso, and head) 
• Teach you how to recognize habits through repattering of movement and you will learn how to maintain better positions without effort, then, good posture happens naturally. 

You could be surprised of how many imbalances and dysfunctions are related to a compromise posture! 

-Gravity is the Therapist- PhD. Ida Rolf 

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration and Pregnancy 

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration can be a great ally for this special time in women’s life. If you are planning to get pregnant; it prepares the lower body to better support the extra weight and the pelvis for labor. It can help you feel more empowered.

During pregnancy; sessions leave you feeling more deeply aware of your body, more integrated as a whole, and with greater ease of movement. 

Common problems for women going through pregnancy 

• Shortness of breath 
• Neck pain 
• Emotional overwhelm 
• Swelling of lower legs and feet 

Common problems for women post birth 

• The body feels weak  
• Areas can feel out of alignment or confused 
• Neck, arm and shoulder pain from holding the new baby 
• Emotional overwhelm 

The Rolf Method for Structural Integration for Children 

During child development, their bodies are subject to the challenges of growing as they discover how to stand and move. It can be of a great benefit to their process and help them to find more control and coordination. It’s been showed that also assist them to achieve more mental focus. The process is usually different than the one for adults.

Babies can as well get a lot benefit from receiving gentle manipulations to improve some conditions that could have happened during labor.

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration and lower back pain 

The lower back is often an area where tensional forces are not well distributed causing pain and discomfort. Through the Rolf Method of Structural Integration process, the body is able to balance that out in coordination with legs and feet to achieve healthier support, therefore the lower back is held in a more efficient way. 

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration & Athletic Performance 

When a body performs repetitive motions over time, muscles become shorten, affecting flexibility and compressing the whole structure. 

Efficiency and fluidity of movement can be obtained through the Rolf Method of Structural Integration process by freeing restrictions and improving the function of muscles and joints. 

• Where to start?          

I offer a 20 minute consultation where we can discuss your specific goals and I can give you a clearer picture of how we can most effectively work together and make a wellness plan for you (Could be done on line) . 

• How does a first session looks like: 

You will be ask to complete a health questionnaire, mentioning your physical history, goals and needs. This is the time when you can ask any question regarding the process. 

I will have an initial posture and movement evaluation where you will stand and walk in order to identify possible patterns of tension. That way I will design a specific plan based in your own needs. 

• what to wear during a session? 

Clients are asked to wear comfortable underwear, bikini or shorts 

About the process- 

The 10-Series 

The 10 series is the hallmark of The Rolf Method of Structural Integration.  

A protocol that was developed by PhD. Ida Rolf.                                                                                                           

Each session focuses in freeing restrictions in particular areas of the body improving organization of the entire structure rather than focusing in the areas that feel stiff or with tension.  

It seeks to address the cause rather than treating the symptoms which are often a compensatory issue. 

For example: if you feel discomfort or pain in your neck, you might not be getting enough support from your pelvis and feet and until there is balance and better connection, the neck will remain in constant tension. 

~Many people choose this format as is well known to achieve a higher level of integration that is reflected in the way you move and interact in the world.~                                                                                                                         

Sessions-1-3  

Called the “sleeve” sessions. Strive to loosen and balance surface layers of connective tissue. 

First session is devoted to enhancing the quality of breath with work on the arms, ribcage and diaphragm. Opening is also started along the upper leg, hamstrings, neck and spine. 

The second session helps give the body a stable foundation by balancing the foot and muscles of the lower leg. 

The third session typically involves a “side view” for an understanding of how the head, shoulder girdle, and hips are positional related to one another when standing under the influence of gravity. Then, the body is addressed within the context of this new vision. 

Sessions 4-7  

Are referred to as “core” sessions and examine terrain found between the bottom of the pelvis and top of the head. The idea of core also includes the deep tissue of the legs for its role in support. 

Session four begins this journey, its territory extends from the inside arch of the foot and up the leg, to the bottom of the pelvis. 

The fifth session is concerned with balancing surface and deep abdominal muscles to the curve of the back. 

Session six seeks to enlist more support and moment from the legs, pelvis and lower back, while the seventh session turns its sole attention to the neck and head. 

Sessions 8-10 

“Integration” is emphasized throughout the remaining three sessions, as sessions 8-10 provide an opportunity for the practitioner to blend previously established advancements, and ones yet to be made, into the body in a way that encourages smooth movement and natural coordination. 

During sessions eight and nine, the practitioner determines how best to achieve this integration, as the protocol is unique for each individual. 

The tenth and final session is also one of integration, but more importantly, serves to inspire a sense of order and balance. Once completed, the wisdom of The Rolf Method of Structural Integration Ten Series will drive and support the body with health for years to come. 

Single Sessions 

This is good option if you are curious about what the experience can be and how does it feel. I will formulate a session that can relief overall tension and leave you grounded. It is a great opportunity to start the 10 series format. 

Tune up or three Sessions Series 

A three-session series format allows more time to address specific goals than a single session and it can be used as a way to maintain your body from normal life challenges after you have completed the 10 session series. 

1-What’s the origin of Structural Integration? 

Structural Integration was developed in the late 50’s by PhD Ida Rolf. She was a pioneer in the research about the connective tissue called fascia. Throughout her studies, she realized that gravity can take a body out of alignment causing imbalances and diminishing flexibility. Its unique approach organize the body over its vertical axis and this is often experienced by an increment of vital energy that can be felt physically, mentally and emotionally.  

2-is Structural Integration the same as Rolfing? 

Yes. Structural Integration is the original named that Dr. Ida Rolf gave to her life’s work. It became also known later also Rolfing TM.  

3-How does it feel? 

Sensation can range from soft to intense as deep tension is been released. The practitioner is deep listening and always adjusting intervention in order to allow the client to expand their comfort zone. It can be surprising precise and subtle and yet profound. 

4-Do I need to have a specific issue to attend to a Structural Integration session?                                                                 

No. Structural integration is a method that will help anybody to feel more coordinated and balance. Any sport that you practice and any daily activity you perform will be more efficient and with ease. 

5-What’s the difference between massage and Structural Integration? 

Massage training most common goal is muscle relaxation and not structural balance. Structural Integration is a process. It seeks for long lasting results, therefore, muscle relaxation is only a byproduct as it looks to change patterns of tension that can be causing unnecessary strain along the body.  

6-How is Structural Integration different from chiropractic? 

Chiropractic approach focuses in the skeletal system and spinal join mobilization.  

In contrast, Structural Integration practitioners are trained to see the body in terms of function and movement efficiency. Therefore their strategies involved a whole body analysis not only focusing to treat a particular area or symptom but, in improving the way a body holds itself in space. The manipulations perform in the soft tissues will address the way fascia, ligaments and tendons balanced bones and joints.