Structural Integration

WHAT IS STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION (SI)?

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION is a system of bodywork that promotes improved alignment and organization of the human structure. By releasing restrictive patterns of tension and strain, Structural Integration brings your body greater balance and ease of movement.

Although we don’t usually give it much thought, we are all affected by the field of gravity in which we exist. When we live with physical restrictions and imbalances in our bodies, we can feel “weighted down,” since gravity exerts its force unevenly. We are akin to structurally unbalanced buildings, and we force our bodies to expend extra energy just to hold us up.

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION frees us from these restrictions. By establishing a vertical line of organization through our structures, this system of bodywork provides us with a higher level of organization and functioning. STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION leaves clients feeling “lighter,” “longer,” and “more upright”. While relieving symptoms is not the primary goal of STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION, many clients report relief from long-standing patterns of restricted movement and chronic pain.

HOW DOES STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION WORK?

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION helps realign the body by manipulating the connective tissue known as “fascia.” Fascia provides structural support, and is responsible for forming the shape of the human body. Fascia wraps through and around all of the body’s structures, including bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and organs. Like plastic wrap, fascia forms a sleeve that “closes off” the end of one structure and then continues on to the next, so that it actually exists as one continuous sheath throughout the entire body.

Fascia can be affected by injury, illness, surgery, and other physical or emotional stressors. Any of these factors can, either immediately or gradually, cause an imbalance in the body’s fascial network. An imbalance occurs whenever fascia becomes “tight” and shortened. Examples include sprains, strains, tendonitis, repetitive use syndromes (such as carpal tunnel), surgical scars, or emotionally-based muscle tension.

As it shortens, fascial tissue becomes dehydrated. Adjacent layers of the involved fascia tend (like plastic wrap) to adhere to one another, further inhibiting their normal function. Pain, stiffness, or diminished flexibility anywhere in the body can signal a fascial imbalance.

Through hands-on bodywork and movement “cues,” STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION helps restore and normalize areas of affected fascia. Clients often experience an immediate sense of relief, and may discover increased breathing capacity, improved range of motion, or freedom from chronic tension and pain. The physical release may even facilitate emotional release, and it is usual to hear clients report positive shifts in their capacity to manage stress and in their overall sense of well-being.

WHAT ARE STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION SESSIONS LIKE?

Each STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION session lasts 90 – 120 minutes. The Basic Series consists of ten sessions; appointments are best scheduled anywhere from one to three weeks apart.

Your practitioner may use fingertips, palms, and even forearms to help stretch and “release” your fascia. You are a partner in this process, and you may be asked to focus on your breathing or other movement to maximize the outcome of the work.

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION is sometimes known by its nickname, “Rolfingâ”, although that term has been service-marked by just one training institution. The nickname honors the late Ida P. Rolf, PHD, who first developed this work.

Unfortunately, “Rolfingâ” has the reputation of working so deeply as to be uncomfortable. While it is true that you may find some areas more sensitive than others, keep in mind that these are your sessions. Your practitioner is a partner who works with you, not on you. You control the pace and level of each session.

DOES STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION LAST?

YES. Client reports, as well as “before and after” photographs, all provide evidence that the effects of Structural Integration can last for years after the completion of the actual sessions. Attention to your posture, lifestyle, and any “movement cues” suggested by your practitioner will enhance the results you experience.

While STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION offers lasting changes, we are all subject to the stresses of life, both physical and emotional. Some clients choose to follow up their basic series with “post-ten” sessions. It is customary to wait (at least) several months for your body to integrate the work of a ten-session series before scheduling more appointments. If you are interested in receiving additional work, you are welcome to discuss the details and scheduling with your practitioner.

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