The Rolfing® Ten Series

We approach with the intention of releasing the superficial fascia from its chronic pattern and allowing for a fuller expression of breath.  This is accomplished by freeing the superficial tissues in the ribcage, shoulder girdle, pelvis and thighs.  Clients often report feeling lighter after the first session.

We address your foundational support in the legs and feet.  Through manipulation and movement, the tissues of the lower leg and foot are opened and balanced.  Clients report feeling more balanced and grounded in standing and walking after this session.

We address the lateral aspect of the body, typically from the pelvis to the shoulder girdle.   We work to enhance dimension and balance between the front and back of the body,  and to differentiate the shoulder and pelvic girdles from the trunk.  Afterwards, clients usually feel taller and more mobile.

The fourth through seventh segments represent a shift in intention to the deeper or “core” layers of the body.  Core layers are those that lie closest to the spine and body’s midline.  We return to the legs.   We work along the inner leg and thigh, differentiating fascial compartments, and organizing them in relationship to the foot and pelvis.  The newfound freedom and sense of connection between foot, leg and pelvis creates a sense of lift in the spine and torso.

We continue our focus on bringing the pelvis into balance and lifting through the core.  Work in thighs, pelvis and abdomen frees restrictions that inhibit pelvic movement, allowing the pelvis to come into horizontal balance, and support the structures above.  Clients report feeling a sense of space in the abdomen, and feel it is easier to maintain an upright and lengthened spine.

We work along the back of the body to balance the anterior length that we have achieved in the previous work.   Deep restrictions in the legs, pelvis and base of spine are addressed, and the connection between the legs and lumbar spine is emphasized.   I’ve heard clients describe these sensations after completion:  “slinky”; “undulating”; “like a gazelle”; “like I could really shake my tail feathers.”

Seven continues the opening of the core space through the neck and head.   We work on the fascia in the neck, skull and face.    By this time in the series, clients usually get a sense of their whole body as being changed.  People feel more effective and at ease.

In our sessions until now, we have worked to free restrictions in particular areas of the body.  The intention now shifts to integration of segments into the whole.  We relate the lower body to the core, and then the upper body to the core, emphasizing fluid and efficient movement.

We have related each half of the body to the core.  Now, we encourage movement through the core and all the joints.   As the body adapts to new ways of being, we conclude the initial manipulation series and observe how changes unfold.  The changes initiated by this initial work will continue for months, even years, after the series.

We conclude the series at a point at which a plateau has been reached.  At this point, it is suggested clients take a break from hands-on work and allow changes to be integrated into the structure and movement patterns.   After some time for integration, you may choose to return for structural tune-ups when something is bothering you or to further the unwinding of deeper body patterns. Tune-up schedules vary depending on your needs and range from bi-monthly to annually. 

During the break from structural work, you might consider Rolfing movement education or Pilates training. These practices help build body and movement awareness, greater efficiency and strength.  Movement sessions are tailored to your specific needs, whether it be athletics; walking, occupational considerations like computer work, equipment operation; driving, carrying children, etc. The aim in movement education is to help you become more self-sufficient in maintaining your structural integrity