The Rolfing® 10-Series
The hallmark of Rolfing Structural Integration is a standardized “recipe” known as the Ten-Series, the goal of which is to systematically align, balance and optimize both the structure (shape) and function (movement) of the entire body over the course of ten Rolfing sessions.
The Ten-Series enhances posture, flexibility, coordination, athletic performance, vitality and breathing, and decrease strain patterns, pain, scar tissue, injury rates and rehabilitation time.
Session 1 Freeing the Breath
The first session is devoted to enhancing the quality of breath. The hands-on work takes place around the surface structures of breathing; ribs, torso, shoulders and also hips and pelvis.
Session 2 Feet and Support
The feet and lower legs are opened and aligned to better support the body in gravity.
Session 3 The Lateral line
Lengthening the sides means opening up the space between the lower ribs and the pelvis. The goal here is to ease strain patterns in the front-back dimension. This session addresses relationships relevant to back, shoulder and neck pain. The low-back, often a source of imbalance, can find freedom of movement and a greater sense of ease.
Session 4 The Midline
Freeing the inside of the legs from the ankle to the pelvis, at a slightly deeper layer. The relationship of the foot to the pelvis is aligned; torsions at the knee and hip are addressed.
Session 5 Opening Upper Chakras & Psoas Balance
The work continues up to length the front of the body, freeing deeper pelvic and abdominal restrictions, releasing quadriceps, and psoas, and providing lift up the center of the structure.
Session 6 Back Line, Spinal Core, Transmission & Grounding Consciousness
The session addresses the calves, hamstrings, back of the pelvis, and up both sides of the spine to the head. This work can be extremely beneficial to back pain (including soreness due to scoliosis), sciatica, and tight hamstrings.
Session 7 The Upper Pole
The work is directed towards balancing the neck and head on the spine. The Rolfer works on the fascia of the neck, opens the connective tissues around the skull, face and the jaw muscles.
Session 8 & 9 Integration begins
As a pair these two sessions aim to balance the girdles and limbs (shoulder girdle, pelvic girdle, arms and legs); removing imbalances in large muscles that tend to decrease both verticality of the spine and structural balance.
Session 10 The Completion
This session is usually customized to each individual’s body and needs. This is our opportunity for closure and integration of the entire process, and to reflect on what the client has gained from the work.