What is Structural Integration?

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration (SI) is a system of holistic bodywork originated by Dr. Ida P. Rolf. It is fundamentally different from any other way of working with the body, because it is the only system which deals with the body in relation to the gravitational field in which it has to function. Because of this, SI often relieves chronic pain and other symptoms when all other interventions have failed. Paradoxically, this is possible precisely because SI is not a form of therapy, a technique, or a fix-it approach. It is a unique way of looking at the body as a whole system, and transforming the person as a whole by physically balancing the body so it functions better in gravity. SI doesn’t chase symptoms; it addresses the imbalances that cause them.

HOW IT WORKS

The practitioner uses the fascia, a type of connective tissue which Dr. Rolf called the organ of form, to reorganize the client’s physical structure around a vertical line (the Rolf line).

Fascia lines the skin and body cavities, covers muscles, bones and organs, and forms a continuous web which gives the body its shape. Over a lifetime of strains, injuries and habits of movement and posture, the fascia in some areas gets shortened, twisted, or hardened; fascial sheets may even be stuck together. We see this in flat feet, crooked legs or backs, slumping or “frozen” shoulders, and other restrictions in mobility.

In an SI session, the practitioner looks at a client who is wearing undergarments and observes where fascial restrictions limit breathing and movement. Then, with the client usually sitting or lying on a worktable, the practitioner uses gentle pressure and guided movement to help the person release old restrictions and holding patterns. Gradually the body is reorganized around a vertical line to make it easier to sit, stand and move in gravity. This has to be done gradually and systematically, both for safety and to make sure the changes will last---so the body doesn’t just go back to its previous state. Intensive special training is required, which is available only at a few schools, and there aren’t many bona fide practitioners---just a few thousand worldwide.

THE TEN SESSIONS

Dr. Rolf designed a series of ten sessions to organize the body for lifelong change. The sessions must be done in order, because each hour builds in support for the changes to come in later sessions. If it is necessary to interrupt or end work part-way through the series, it’s important to consult the practitioner in advance, to find the best stopping point for the individual in the circumstances. Some points lend themselves to a pause, while others do not.

The specific goals set for each hour are the same for every client, but the approach to achieving them varies according to individual structure and other concerns. The general process is as follows:

THE SUPERFICIAL SESSIONS: Hours one, two and three. Loosening and organizing the “sleeve” or outer layer of the body.

THE DEEPER SESSIONS: Hours four through seven. Organizing the “core” or deep center line of the body.

THE INTEGRATIVE SESSIONS: Hours eight through tgn. Boy layers and segments are coordinated, and the client learns more effective movement patterns. The tenth hour starts a process of self-organizing which continues for months---usually a year or more.

THE PRACTICAL EFFECTS

People commonly report greater ease and freedom of movement, more ease in dealing with stress, and reduction or disappearance of chronic pain and other problems. Many clients say they feel younger and freer; some have said it’s like switching from a Ford to a Cadillac.

Though SI is helpful in dealing with pain and other dysfunctions, it can do even more good (though perhaps less dramatically) before the body starts breaking down. In a healthy body, Structural Integration can improve quality of life even more, and helps to prevent future difficulties.

People who understand this often use SI for better athletic performance, improved outlook and ability to handle stress, personal growth, and overall health. Those who benefit include athletes, artists, computer workers, and others whose work involves physical strain; people who want to prolong their active years; and those who want or are experiencing major change in their lives.

To get the most from the experience, a person needs one thing above all: Willingness to change!