Rolfing® Structural Integration / Rolf Movement™ Integration is a unique combination of manual Fascial Release, Somatic Movement Education and Embodiment techniques. It acts on our bodies, our minds and our autonomic nervous system.

While Rolfing is always done as 1-on-1, Rolf Movement can also be practiced in groups.

Rolfing is a process

In the first Rolfing sessions, we will look at the alignment of the body in gravity. Slight changes in this alignment can already strongly affect tensions in the body. In later sessions, we will have a closer look on remaining and deeper tensions.

At the same time, we will explore how we perceive our bodies from the inside and how we move habitually.

All these factors mutually influence one another and have to be considered at the same time. This is why Rolfing is not done as one-off sessions but as a series of sessions, typically 10. (However, the process can be stopped at any time.) The classical Rolfing 10-series guides the body carefully and lucidly through the many-layered change process and helps it to best align in gravity.

Dr. Ida Rolf, biochemist and founder of the Rolfing method, stated that “[The] gravitational field of the earth is easily the most potent physical influence in any human life.”^[1] There is no point in fighting gravity, but if we make gravity our friend, it will support us.^[2]

The Rolfing process enables a deep transformation. It facilitates natural uprightness, authentic expressivity and greater ease in movements. Being better supported in gravity leads to a feeling of serenity and safety and offers a base for new energy and joy of life. And observing how psychological conflicts can ease off together with physical tensions is fascinating.

There are not many real studies on the method available

While there are not many studies availabe that proof the effects according to rigorous scientific standards, every Rolfer is his or her own case study. Most often it is the experience of going through the Rolfing process that makes somebody want to become a Rolfer.

Likely, Rolfing and Rolf Movement work by several mechanisms that mutually influence each other. This makes them potentially very effective but also complex and difficult to scientifically prove and explain.

Knowing what generally holds true helps

In the articles of this blog, I will discuss some of the plausible mechanisms and give scientific evidence, wherever available. A certain understanding of how things work might be helpful to consider engaging in a Rolfing process. – At least for people who like to understand things.

Sensing what is right now might help more

However, we must not forget: During the Rolfing sessions and shortly after, the attention needs to be on the body. This is because our brain and nervous system process information from the current moment, which we gain through attention, differently than existing knowledge. Yes, curiosity can open the door to change.

Would you like to know more about the Rolfing process? If so, read my blog on “The treasure of the 10 sessions” (which is right now only available in German, but will go online in English some time during March).

[1] „Rolfing – Reestablishing the Natural Alignment and Structural Integration of the Human Body for Vitality and Well-Being“, Ida P. Rolf, PhD, Healing Arts Press, Rochester, Vermont, USA, 1989, page 30

[2] You can find some first explanations in my blog post for the European Rolfing Association “Prevent neck and back pain when working at your desk“