How does Rolfing work?
The idea behind the Rolfing approach is that everything (muscles, ligaments, tendons, organs, bones) in the body is lined with a thin layer called fascia. This lining allows body parts to move and slide relative to each other, which is extremely important to any movement. Fascia also has a hand in defining the length of muscles, tendons and ligaments. Cumulatively it helps define our body shape or posture. Fascia will compensate for injury, aging, or poor movement patterns by hardening, adhering, reducing length and elasticity, to help support the body. With even mild trauma, fascia can harden, reshape itself and stay in that new state. This binding creates misalignment which permeates the body, restricting movement, creating inefficiencies, pain, and poor posture.
However, bound fascia will respond to pressure and manipulation to become softer, longer, and able to slide again. The Rolfer applies this concept in balancing and aligning the entire body structure to reduce stress and make for more efficient movement.
The experience of pianist Leon Fleisher provides a dramatic example of the benefits of undergoing Rolfing structural integration in order to treat trauma to his hands.
- Leon Fleisher talking about Rolfing structural integration.
- Leon Fleisher celebrating his return to performing after a series of Rolfing sessions.
For more information ask one of our practitioners or visit The Rolf Institute® Web site on the theory and principles of Rolfing structural integration.