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Theory and Principles of Rolfing
The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration (RISI) has continued
Dr. Rolf’s profound inquiry into how to enhance the whole person by organizing the body in gravity. Some of the more important developments of the work since Dr. Rolf’s death are also what now distinguishes Rolfing from all other forms of structural integration:
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Principles of Intervention – Rolfing training begins with the Ten Series developed by Dr. Rolf. Over the years, the faculty at the Rolf Institute has articulated the core principles on which the original series was based, including variations of Dr. Rolf’s original protocol. By understanding these principles Rolfers can work effectively inside or outside of the Ten Series and incorporate intervention strategies that reflect the unique needs of each client.
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Gentle Techniques – As Rolfers work with the deep myofascial structures, some people may experience the work as uncomfortable; however, Rolfers have continued to develop a broad range of techniques that produce profound results with less discomfort.
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Joint Mobilization Techniques – The Rolf Institute® faculty has created a range of soft tissue techniques that release the motion restrictions that impede whole body organization. These techniques increase Rolfers’ effectiveness in working with many common structural problems.
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The Personal Experience – Rolfing is a holistic technique in that changes in structure can impact the whole person, physically, emotionally, and energetically. Ultimately, each client’s individual experience plays a central role in Rolfing’s transformational aspects.
The Integration of Structure and Function - In Rolf Movement® Integration, the Rolfer™ helps clients become aware of their inhibiting movement patterns and teaches them how to change them. In Rolfing structural integration, the Rolfer releases these patterns through manipulation as they manifest in the client’s structure. Rolfing is as concerned with how people experience and use their bodies in their daily lives as with their structural organization in gravity. This unique blend of both, the functional and structural aspects of Rolfing, is a distinctive feature of the training at RISI.