Rose Crawmer Rolfer Frequently Asked Questions

1.) What is the history of Rolfing? Rolfing was developed in the 1940's by Ida P. Rolf (1896-1979). Receiving her Ph.D in biochemistry from Columbia University she also studied Homeopathy, Chiropractic, Osteopathy and Yoga in her quest to relieve chronic pain. During her research she discovered the importance of fascia and the effects of gravity - both of which shape our body. Dr. Rolf taught her method for many years. In 1971 she opened the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration in Boulder, Colorado. There are now over 1850 Rolfers worldwide.
2.) What is fascia? Fascia is the layer of fibrous tissue in the body that surrounds and encases muscles, groups of muscles, organs and other soft tissues. Stress and trauma shape our body by contracting fascia while gravity pulls everything down.
3.) What are the 10 Series? The 10 Series is the client's introduction to Rolfing. Instead of focusing on symptomatic relief or even chasing the pain through the system, the Rolfer looks at the whole body checking for lines of strain, imbalances in the building blocks of the body (note the little boy logo) and holding patterns. The first 3 sessions deal with the superficial layers of fascia (like a body stocking under the skin). This body stocking can be pulled too tight or even rotated due to stress and/trauma.They deal with freeing the ribcage and thus enhancing breathing; working on feet and legs for support; lengthening the sides of the body and front/back balance. Sessions 4-7 are core sessions that lengthen the midline of the body. They deal with inner leg length which supports the pelvis; work on the abdominal area which connects the leg to the pelvis; work on the whole back side of the body; connecting up through the neck into the head and balancing the body on the spine. These first 7 sessions deal with parts of the body and sessions 8-10 are integration sessions to bring those parts into a whole. Through all the sessions there will be movement pieces or cues added so that the client can increase his/her body awareness, create space in the body by opening the compressed areas, increase flexibility and free up the joints. Each session is designed to build on the previous session.
4.) What do I wear during the session? Females wear bra and panties and men wear briefs (preferable to boxers).
5.) Does Insurance cover Rolfing? No. A flexible spending plan my cover; I will supply you with a receipt.
6.) Where do I get more information on Rolfing? Rolf Institute of Structural Integration at: www.rolf.org