Discovering The Benefits Of Rolfing California

By Lila Bryant


Rolfing is a lesser known healing art than acupuncture, chiropractics, massage, Reiki and others. Rolfing California practitioners and others are known for using deeper and more aggressive pressure. The process which many term Structural Integration works to release tension and reshape the fascia which is extremely thin tissue made up of threads which run in opposite overlaid patterns beneath the skin.

As the process works to reshape and transform these thin layers of threads into new patterns, it is more akin to chiropractics than massage. Although where chiropractors use pressure to reshape and restructure the skeleton aspects of different areas of the body, practitioners and others in the field use aggressive pressure to transform these deepest layers of skin tissue.

Unlike massage in which there are a number of styles for different needs, rolfing is a whole body practice. Based on a recipe which involves ten visits to a practitioner, the practice unlike massage has specific applications which are used in sequence. To get the most out of rolfing, it is important that individuals attend all ten sessions.

The tissue is then transformed into new patterns. The process not only generates integrated healing patterns within the body but also helps to release emotional distress. Most individuals find this to be quite beneficial. Those with little to no knowledge of the practice can sometimes find the emotional release a session a shock to the system.

For individuals interested in becoming trained as practitioners without experience, the Foundations program offers all the building blocks necessary to learn the practice. Whereas, the Accelerated Foundations program is for those who hold certificates in massage, reiki or other healing arts. The Foundations program requires a high school diploma and 60 credits of higher education, whether through an extended education program, or online learning. Whereas, the Accelerated Foundations program requires having worked with a local professional for a few sessions, proof of work in other areas and a write up describing why one wishes to become a practitioner.

Research is mixed on benefits of the practice, many individuals claim the benefits are far more reaching than traditional medicine. As to how the practice works to help heal and transform the body, it is yet to be determined. One theory is that like with other forms of holistic medicine such as acupuncture and chiropractics, the body retains stress in different areas which is released during a session.

Those who work with practitioners for a full recipe often have great things to say about this healing art. As with all practices, individuals always need check with a primary care provider or holistic practitioner to determine which practices may work best for current needs. Most holistic practitioners and traditional medical staff support the practice as an add-on, if not primary medical care for a number of conditions.

Individuals who have early childhood or other emotional trauma which has been dormant due to therapy or other work, need consider this aspect. While it can be extremely difficult, the practice can help release any negative energy still related to such trauma but it might take a great deal of patience and work to overcome the emotional release of such energy. A number of individuals whom have completed the recipe say the greatest benefit is that the process healed body, mind and Spirit while also promoting a freer and less stressful life in the future.




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