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Release for the body
Gravity, stress, and aging cause physical changes in our bodies, which can lead to pain and stiffness. Rolfing Structural Integration, a method of releasing tightness in the connective tissues that bind together muscles, claims to realign the body through a series of deep-pressure manipulations. Often described as a cross between a chiropractic treatment and a deep-tissue massage, Rolfing’s chief emphasis is on freeing the body’s connective tissue, or fascia, from restrictions.
In the 1940s, Dr. Ida Rolf developed what she first called “Postural Release” and later “Structural Integration of the Human Body.” (Her devotees adopted the name “Rolfing.”) Rolf stated, “Fascial planes are sometimes like bandages. The body ties itself together, winds itself around, and really pulls the fascial bandage tight.” A Rolfing practitioner attempts to unblock the fascia so that muscles can slide freely beneath it.
A typical treatment begins with the Rolfer examining your posture, and perhaps taking “before” photographs. You will then be asked to lie or sit on a massage table or floor mat, and the practitioner will begin the Rolfing movements, manipulating the fascia using his or her elbows, fingers, and knuckles. Rolfers try to locate the tight places in the fascia, and then “open” those places with slowly increasing pressure. You may be asked to breathe in sync with the manipulations.
Holding manual pressure in the areas between connective tissues, Rolfers are able to feel when the fascia release. After several sessions, the practitioner goes deeper into the problem areas. Many people find that they are more limber after only one session, although 10 sessions is the recommended course of treatment.
Rolfing’s benefits may include improved posture, flexibility, and less pain. Rolfing is also effective in treating injuries, which tend to cause scarring and inflammation, and pain and stiffness caused by habits such as sitting in front of a computer for too long.
“Three factors contribute to connective tissue problems,” says Michael Murphy, a certified advanced Rolfer from Los Altos with over 30 years’ experience. “The first is genetics. I can go to a family reunion and spot the inherited physical characteristics right away. Second is injuries and physical trauma. Last is what I call modeling, or the practice of imitating other people, such as cultural icons, which develops unnatural postural habits leading to physical problems. “Overall body alignment is more than just an aesthetic,” Murphy adds. “An improperly aligned body struggles against gravity, wasting energy that could be used in more positive ways. Ida Rolf believed that years of fighting gravity could lead to premature aging.”
Clients’ reactions to a Rolfing treatment range from no sensation of pain to a high level of discomfort. “Rolfing techniques have become more subtle over the years,” says Murphy. “Rolfers listen carefully to what clients tell them about how much pressure is comfortable.” In existence for over 60 years, Rolfing is enjoying a resurgence. Oprah’s Dr. Oz recently gave Rolfing the Oprah’s Golden Seal of Approval.
South Bay Rolfers
Per Haaland, Los Gatos: 831.479.9565, perhaalandrolfing.com
Michele Richards, Los Gatos: 408.393.3912
Deborah Weidhaas, Los Gatos: 408.354.7654, rolfingpro.com
Karen Giles-Parrish, San Jose: 408.564.0334
Kalyani Gilliam-Salman, San Jose: 831.626.3662
Michael Murphy, Los Altos: 650.559.7653, murphyrolfing.com
