What is Rolf Therapy

Rolf Therapy, or Structural Integration, is a scientifically validated technique of connective tissue work, developed by Dr Ida Rolf in the 1950’s. Its primary intention is to realign our bodies within the field of gravity.

Imagine the segments of your body; head, shoulders, hips, knees and feet as a tower of building blocks. So long as this structure is in alignment, all is well. Very often, though, our bodies become ‘out of balance’, often due to physical injury, emotional stress or poor postural habits.

How do our bodies become out of balance?

The body is held together by a web of connective tissue that surrounds individual bones, muscles and organs. When it is injured, or held out of alignment, this tissue shortens and thickens to support the increased load in that particular area. This creates a pattern of stress that spreads throughout the whole body.

How does Rolf Therapy help?

During the carefully designed series of ten sessions, the Rolf Practitioner uses her hands to gently free the tensions and rigidities within the connective tissue. As these tensions are released, the connective tissue becomes more elastic, which gradually allows the body to become more in tune within gravity.

As a result of the work, people often appear taller and slimmer!

Feelings of discomfort or chronic pain are often alleviated and people generally experience greater mobility; easier and deeper breathing: the ability to stand and move more comfortably with less strain and enhanced co-ordination, comfort and poise.

People of all ages experience Rolf Therapy as a way to ease pain and chronic stress, and to improve their personal and professional activities.

Does the work last?

Yes! Photographs taken of clients years after the initial series of ten sessions, shows that the beneficial changes are still present, and often improved!

Keep in mind, though, that as our lives change, our bodies change in response. Therefore, any injuries or accidents sustained might necessitate additional work.

Further information and listings of Rolf Therapy practitioners world-wide can be obtained from:

The Guild of Structural Integration
www.rolfguild.org

The Rolf Institute
www.rolf.org