What is Rolfing® Structural Integration?

Named after its founder, Dr. Ida P. Rolf, Rolfing SI is a form of bodywork that reorganizes the connective tissues, called fascia, that permeate the entire body.

More than fifty years ago, Dr. Rolf recognized that the body is inherently a system of seamless networks of tissues rather than a collection of separate parts.  These connective tissues surround, support and penetrate all of the muscles, bones, nerves and organs.  Rolfing Structural Integration works on this web-like complex of connective tissues to release, realign and balance the whole body, thus potentially resolving discomfort, reducing compensations and alleviating pain. Rolfing SI aims to restore flexibility, revitalize energy and leave you feeling more comfortable in your body.  

Essentially, the Rolfing process enables the body to regain the natural integrity off its form, thus postural efficiency and your freedom of movement.

What are the benefits?

Rolfing SI has the ability to dramatically alter a person's posture and structure. Rolfing SI can potentially resolve discomfort, release tension and alleviate pain. Rolfing SI aims to restore flexibility, revitalize your energy and leave you feeling more comfortable in your body. The genius of the work rests on Dr. Rolf's insight that the body is more at ease and functions most effectively when it structure is balanced in gravity.

Athletes, dancers, children, business professional, and people from all walks of life have benefited from Rolfing SI. People seek Rolfing SI as a way to ease pain and chronic stress, and improve performance in their professional and daily activities.  It's estimated that more than 1 million people have received Rolfing work.

Research has demonstrated that Rolfiing SI creates a more efficient use of the muscles, allows the body to conserve energy, and creates more economical and refined patterns of movement.  Research also shows that Rolfing SI significantly reduces chronic stress and changes in the body structure.  For example, a study showed that Rolfing SI significantly reduced the spinal lordosis (sway back); it also showed that Rolfing SI enhances neurological functioning.

The term "Rolfing" is the nickname that many clients and practitioners give this work.  It is now a registered trademark in 38 countries.