Rolfing® creates change
by D.J. Cross —
In the 1960s, Dr. Ida P. Rolf said, “If you can imagine how it feels to live in a fluid, light, balanced body, free of pain, stiffness and chronic stress, at ease with yourself and Earth’s gravitational field, then you will understand the goals of Rolfing Structural Integration.”
Contrary to popular belief and personal frustration, you can change your body structure. As you look in the mirror you might notice how your right shoulder is higher than the left, your left hip is rotated back and your head too far forward. All these parts can be moved into place so that you can see and feel new order, new balance and proper alignment. You are not stuck with old injuries, genetic blueprints or structural issues that restrict your freedom of movement, or your flexibility and coordination.
The goal of Rolfing is to integrate and align your structure in relation to the field of gravity. This invisible and vital force then supports, energizes, heals, grounds and lifts you. You become more spacious and open. This new alignment changes and dissolves your structural and functional patterns of pain and dysfunction.
These major changes in your structure evoke behavioral and life changes. Freedom of movement in your body invites freedom of movement in your life. The Rolfing experience is profound, as well as practical. In your new alignment you can feel a new sense of balance, wholeness, vitality and well-being.
Other benefits include graceful movement; coordination and flexibility; softening of the aging process; and performance enhancement in sports, fitness training, yoga and dance. You can also let go of old stored memories and emotions as your tissues release under the Rolfer’s touch.
The Rolfing process includes gentle, yet deep, intentional touch with definitive goals for each session. Working together, the patient and practioner release and reorganize the connective tissue patterns. Focused breathing movement education and client and Rolfer rapport are also important to the process.
The most comprehensive and impactful use of Rolfing is in the 10 series, comprised of 10 sequential goals created by Dr. Rolf through her understanding of human structure in relation to gravity. Her vision is to use Rolfing as a tool for human evolution. On a more simple and personal level, the Rolfing experience invites you to go beyond pain and symptom relief into personal growth and development, uncovering a new you.
D.J. Cross is a certified, advanced Rolfer and cranioSacral therapist who pioneered Rolfing in the Phoenix valley 30 years ago. She practices in Scottsdale, Ariz., and is available for introductory sessions, seminars and speaking engagements. www.healthinfocusaz.com, djcross.s@hotmail.com or 602-284-5796.
Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 27, Number 6, December 2008/January 2009
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