Rolfing® Structural Integration: A radical approach to change!

With hands-on manipulation, the rolfer releases tense and painful patterns held within the connective tissue.

by D.J. Cross — 

Fifty years ago, Dr. Ida P. Rolf’s conviction that the body structure can be changed was radical. It still is. We are not stuck with our genetic blueprint or the blueprint of our life’s experiences.

Gravity is the most fundamental force human beings must contend with. When not aligned with gravity, the body breaks down and complains through low back and neck pain, poor posture and balance, constant fatigue, tight and restricted muscles, limited movement, depression and aging. When your structure is aligned and integrated, gravity becomes a force that supports, uplifts, energizes and heals you. Structural patterns and dysfunctions dissolve to uncover balance, wholeness, new vitality and well-being.

People in alignment experience freedom from pain; more graceful movement; better balance, flexibility and coordination; enhanced performance; a softening of the aging process; and an opening to major life changes.

The rolfing process involves gentle, yet deep and intentional touch; movement education; focused breathing; partnership and empowerment, laced with good humor.

With hands-on manipulation, the rolfer releases tense and painful patterns held within the connective tissue. These strain patterns hold memories and emotions that distort and misshape the body. Traumatic memories can dissolve as you become more open and spacious. This allows the reorganization of your structure around its central vertical axis which creates a sense of being lifted and grounded.

The beauty of rolfing is the invitation to go beyond symptom relief into personal growth and development — uncovering a new you. The rolfing experience can transform your body, your behavior and your life. Your personal sense of alignment and structural integration will continue to guide and inspire you.

Dr. Rolf had a vision of using structural integration as an evolutionary tool to uncover our higher order of humanness. These inspirations are woven into the nitty-gritty of the rolfing sessions, so you can feel the stirrings of infinite possibility.

D.J. Cross is a certified Advanced Rolfer and cranioSacral therapist. She trained at the Rolf Institute in Bolder, Colorado, and pioneered rolfing in the Valley 30 years ago. She currently practices in Scottsdale and is available for introductory sessions, seminars and speaking engagements. 602-284-5796.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 26, Number 5, October/November 2007.