What is Rolfing®?

Rolfing® Structural Integration is a system of fascial manipulation and movement education that organizes the whole body in gravity. It is a somatic practice that aims to affect the body’s posture and structure by manipulating the myofascial system, facilitating alignment and functional movement in the body. Designed by Dr. Ida Rolf, this technique works directly with the fascia of the body to align and balance the body’s components until the entire system is a smoothly functioning coordinated whole. This leaves clients with a greater sense of awareness and comfort in their bodies, as well as better posture, reduced pain, and enhanced ease of movement. Rolfing has also been shown to significantly reduce chronic stress, reduce spinal curvature in clients with lordosis, and enhance neurological functioning. More information about the latest research related to Rolfing® and Structural Integration can be found on the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute® website.

While Rolfing is often grouped with massage and other forms of manual bodywork, there are fundamental differences between Rolfing and the other modalities. Rolfing works to address the structural integration of the body and not the symptoms of resulting from the body’s misalignment. Thus, the aim of Rolfing is to address the body’s functioning in a holistic way, beyond temporary symptom relief.