Frequently Asked Questions
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Rolfing® Structural Integration is a form of bodywork and movement education that works with the body's connective tissue, or fascia, to improve how the body organizes itself and moves. Rather than focusing only on the area that hurts, Rolfing looks at how the body works as a whole.
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People seek Rolfing® for many different reasons, including improving posture and movement, reducing tension and discomfort, recovering from old movement patterns or injuries, and feeling more at ease in their bodies. Every person's experience is different, and results vary from person to person.
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Rolfing® can be helpful for people from many different backgrounds and activity levels. Some clients come because they are experiencing discomfort or restricted movement, while others are looking to improve posture, body awareness, athletic performance, or simply feel better in their bodies.
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Massage generally focuses on muscles and relaxation, while Rolfing® looks at how the body is organized as a whole and how connective tissue, movement, and alignment relate to one another. Rolfing also incorporates movement education to help you become more aware of how you use your body.
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Chiropractic care generally focuses on the relationship between the spine, nervous system, and musculoskeletal system. Rolfing® focuses on the body's connective tissue, movement patterns, and overall organization. The two approaches can complement one another, depending on your individual needs.
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Both Rolfing® and myofascial techniques work with fascia, but Rolfing® takes a broader structural approach. Rather than focusing primarily on releasing individual areas of tension, Rolfing® considers how different parts of the body relate to one another and how the whole body moves and organizes itself.
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The Ten-Series is a structured series of ten Rolfing® sessions designed to work progressively through the body. Each session has a different focus, while building on the changes made in the sessions before it.
The series is traditionally divided into three phases: the first sessions focus on creating space and mobility, the middle sessions work more deeply with the body's core and relationships, and the final sessions integrate the work into a more coordinated whole. -
No. You do not have to commit to all ten sessions before experiencing Rolfing®.
The Ten-Series is designed as a complete process, and I generally recommend it for people who want to experience the full progression of Rolfing®. However, many people begin with an individual session to see how Rolfing® feels and determine whether it is a good fit for them. -
Sessions are generally spaced about one to two weeks apart. This gives your body time to experience and adapt to the changes between sessions.
The exact timing can vary depending on your schedule, your goals, and how you are responding to the work. -
The Ten-Series is designed to help you develop a more integrated relationship with your body, but the process doesn't necessarily end with session ten.
Some people choose to schedule monthly Rolfing® sessions after completing the series, while others return when they feel they need additional support. The choice depends on your individual goals and experience. -
Rolfing® does not need to be painful to be effective. Some areas may feel intense or tender, but I work within your comfort level and communicate with you throughout the session.
You are always in control and encouraged to speak up if something feels too intense or uncomfortable. -
A typical session begins with a conversation about how you are feeling, what you have noticed in your body, and what you would like to work on.
Depending on the session, I may also observe your posture and movement. The hands-on portion of the session is performed while you are generally wearing comfortable, lightweight clothing.
Each session is different because each person's body and history are different. -
Rolfing® is completed clothed but with access to your skin. The most important thing is for you to be comfortable. Options for Women: loose athletic shorts, bra that is appropriate, a tank top or another loose shirt. Options for Men: underwear or loose athletic shorts.
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The Adult sessions are 60-75 minutes. Children ages 0-14 are between 30-45 minutes. Extended session for professional athletes or clients looking for more time are 90 minutes.
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Extended Sessions are 90 minutes long and are good for professional athletes or any clients looking for more time to work on goals.
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I do not accept insurance. I am, however, able to accept HSA’s (Heath Savings Accounts) that many employers provide to their employees.
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I accept all major credit cards, zelle, cash, checks, and HSA’s (Health Savings Accounts).
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Yes. I work with athletes who are looking to improve movement, body awareness, recovery, and overall physical performance.
I've had the opportunity to work with professional athletes, including players from Minnesota professional sports teams. My approach is tailored to the individual athlete and the demands of their sport. -
Yes, with an adult present to sit in during sessions. Rolfing® can serve as a preventative measure to minimize potentially problematic patterns in children. Rolfing® can begin to correct patterns, such as posture imbalances, which may limit the child's development and mobility. Early intervention by a Rolfer® aware of the unique needs of infants and children can make a profound difference in a child's awareness, comfort level, and self-esteem.
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Certified Rolfers® complete specialized professional training in Rolfing Structural Integration, including anatomy, physiology, movement, palpation, hands-on techniques, and the principles of structural integration.
I completed my professional training at the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute® of Structural Integration in Boulder, Colorado. -
There are many different types of Structural Integrating Schools and workshops out there, but the school that Dr. Ida Rolf started was The Dr. Ida Rolf Institute. Only practitioners that trained there can say that they are Rolfers®, or what they do is Rolfing®. If you want to verify that your practitioner is a Certified Rolfer® you can use the following link “Verify a Rolfer Link”.
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Rolfing and massage are different forms of bodywork with different training and approaches.
A Certified Rolfer® has completed specialized training in Rolfing Structural Integration, which focuses on the relationship between connective tissue, movement, and the organization of the body as a whole. -
I have completed trainings with a Rolfer® with over 35 years experience and over 1400 hours in Biodynamic Cranisacral Therapy in Boulder Colorado. We learned how to work in this way and also how to bring this touch into Rolfing® and the whole body.
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If you don't see your question answered here, feel free to contact me. I'm happy to talk with you about Rolfing and whether it may be a good fit for your goals.