What is Rolfing?
Rolfing Structural Integration is a combination of deep tissue bodywork and movement education intended to progressively balance the whole body structurally and functionally in gravity. Rolfing was developed more than fifty years ago by Dr. Ida P. Rolf. As a Biochemist at Columbia University, Dr. Rolf became interested in the role of connective tissue -- or fascia -- in the misalignment of the body, hence she was a pioneer in the art and science of soft-tissue manipulation. Rolfing is the nickname given to her work. Ida Rolf’s grounding in science and commitment to her vision led her to study various disciplines like yoga, Osteopathy, and Chiropractic. Unique to Rolfing is the use of gravity as a means for aligning the human structure, and the inclusion of body schema to develop better function. Today there are an overwhelming array of modalities being explored by Rolfers in support of the goals of Rolfing Structural Integration ranging from Craniosacral therapy to working with the viscera and freeing nerves, to applied functional movement strategies.

What can Rolfing do?
Improving your alignment in gravity can bring about a more stable and balanced physical structure. The goal of Rolfing is to literally re-organize the shape of your body. Rolfers use their hands to lengthen soft tissue, release fascial strain and open the body with respect to holistic balance. It is due to the plasticity and resilience of the connective tissue network -- or fascia -- that structural changes can be felt and seen and will continue to integrate over months and years. Furthermore, exploring and refining how you negotiate movement enhances your potential to move in harmony with gravity in daily life. Rolfing can be a rewarding and valuable process of self discovery that can improve how you map your body helping you to move with a better sense inner connectivity while more fully connected to your environment

How do we get out of alignment?
Our bodies are like 3-D maps where our life-histories and gravity’s constant influence are archived in the tissues from prenatal development onward. The residue of injury, trauma, speed, conditioning and lifelong patterns of stress can permeate our movement preferences and postural habits in ways that are under our radar. Every day, in the interest of body security, kinetic energy is being lost in order to support and protect the body, thereby limiting the possibilities in movement.

 

Jennifer Eisele, CMT
Certified Advanced Rolfer
831-425-4415
Jennifer@rolfinginsantacruz.com

Located in the Historic Branciforte Plaza at 555 Soquel Avenue, Suite 260 Santa Cruz CA 95062