If you can imagine how it feels to live in a fluid, light and balanced body free of pain, stiffness and chronic stress, then you can begin to appreciate the depth of the Rolfing experience.
While every Rolfing session is unique, addressing your specific physical problems and patterns, each session works with the manipulation of fascia at varying depths in the body. Thus, the sensations can vary from mild to strong and range from pleasurable warmth to momentary discomfort.
Rolfing gained a reputation in the early 1970’s for being a painful process, a reputation that is unfortunate and, thankfully, outdated. I always endeavor to keep the intensity at a level tolerable to the client. New training and techniques allow us to work together in ways that are effective, gentle, and considerate of your experience.
Early in the first session you and I will establish a level of physical sensation that you are comfortable with. Often, within the first few sessions you will notice a palpable release of tension and tightness. Many people report feeling lighter, taller, and more balanced. Sometimes the effects build more gradually, with an increasing fluidity of movement and greater sense of ease as well as increased alertness and energy.
Rolfing typically begins with a series of ten, 75 to 90 minute sessions spaced a week or two apart. The process is designed as a comprehensive approach to integrating your entire body. Post-ten sessions provide you with an ongoing way to mitigate the damaging effects of stress, to enhance performance and to remind your body of its most efficient balance.
During the session you will be in your underwear so I can best analyze and address your specific structural patterns. Often people are uncomfortable with this aspect of the process. Most times, once the process is underway, clients become engaged in the change they feel in their bodies and are excited to be able to see the physical changes in their body that I will point out. However, if you are uncomfortable with this aspect of the work, shorts and loose shirts are acceptable. Your comfort is my greatest concern. No one should miss out on the important benefits of this work due to discomfort or embarrassment.
While there are some contraindications to Rolfing where deep touch may not be appropriate, many conditions respond favorably to the work. It is always a good idea to check with your doctor before starting any new therapy. It is important to remember that Rolfers do not diagnose or treat specific disease. Rolfing is a healing method that works with your whole system to promote health and well-being. The benefits of Rolfing stem from this wholistic approach to the body and from the caring relationship between Rolfer and client, a relationship centered on health.
Rolfing is open to everyone including children and the elderly. Rolfing for children is particularly effective in dealing with and preventing many childhood patterns and disorders. Scoliosis, pigeon toes, knocked-knees, rounded legs, poor posture and even adolescent growing pains are addressed with great success in the Rolfing process. Work with children is always gentle and comfortable and rarely requires the time that adult bodies do.
Consultations are free and are approximately 30 minutes long. I am happy to answer any questions you may have about the process and can offer you an example of what Rolfing touch feels like. Rates are $120 per session. Unfortunately, most insurance does not cover Rolfing. I will provide receipts upon request if you wish to pursue insurance reimbursement.