Frequently Asked Questions(click on any header to expand...) What can I expect during a session?Rolfing sessions generally last 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Prior to the work, I will observe how you stand and move. The treatment itself is a series of manipulations accomplished by my hands, fingers, knuckles and elbows on your body. Clients may feel this as electrical sensation on their skin, deep pressure or a variety of other sensations during the process; however, these usually pass shortly after the pressure is released. Most clients report a sense of dramatic ease and lightness as the session progresses. How often should I have a rolfing session?The time between sessions is based on your body's rate of adaptation to the work. People usually schedule sessions once a week or every two weeks. Some wait up to four weeks between sessions. It's important to note your response to the work and schedule according to your body's rhythms. How is Rolfing different than Chiropractic?Chiropractic differs from Rolfing in that it focuses on the bones and skeletal system. Chiropractic techniques often involve thrust to alleviate symptoms of pain or tension within the body. In contrast, Rolfing works with the soft tissues of the body - fascia, muscles, ligaments and tendons using sustained pressure and asking for client movement to release chronic patterns. Chiropractic and Rolfing are complementary. What can I expect to feel between sessions?The first few days after a session are usually the time of greatest change.Somewhat like the first day after heavy excercise, you may feel a bit sore the next day. After that you may experience ongoing shifts in balance and awareness. Most people experience feelings of lightness and improved comfort and ease of movement. How is Rolfing different than massage?The practice and scope of massage is to
relax muscles, improve range of motion (ROM) and improve
circulation. Massage is very good for working local anatomy that is chronically
tight. It may improve body alignment and balance, but that
is not the goal of the work. In a massage, the practitioner is working
on the client. Massage asks what is present in the body to relax. Why ten sessions?Rolfing is usually done in a series of 10 sessions in order for the Rolfer to address the entire body, but clients can come in for fewer sessions. A series of 3 sessions generally provides the Rolfer and client with enough information to determine if Rolfing is right for the client and address concerns. The 10 Series format is designed to work on the whole body systematically. Each Rolfing session builds upon the results of the previous session, so the process is cumulative. When the 10 Series is completed, the full potential of Rolfing is realized. What if I don't complete the series?Whatever work you receive is complete in itself. Your body will continue to adjust in response to that amount of work. Even when there are significant time gaps between the beginning and end of a series, there is little regression in the body. Won't I just regress into my old habits once I complete the 10 series?Rolfing is a process, not a product. Human bodies are in a constant state of change, due to external forces acting upon it and the internal forces governing it. During the process of Rolfing, your body becomes balanced, and many negative forces are minimized. The closer to balance your body is, the more it strives for higher symmetry and balance. Does Rolfing hurt?Contrary to popular misconception, Rolfing is not always painful. Any discomfort in response to Rolfing pressure is an indication of the amount of chronic tension stored in the tissues. It is the responsibility of the Rolfer to work within the level of tolerance of each client to accomplish the goals of the work. Most clients are not concerned about discomfort during the sessions. When the clientís level of tolerance is respected, the rolfer and client can work together to achieve better results. Do you offer anything but the basic series?The basic series is designed to make
significant changes in the form and balance of the body,
but realistically it is not intended to be a one time cure-all for body
dysfunction. After a period of adjustment, three months to one year or
longer, it is possible to continue the process. Do the effects of Rolfing last?Most often the benefits of Rolfing last many years after the initial 10 Series. Some people continue to improve without any further work. However, bodies change, injuries and accidents occur and additional work can be beneficial. What do I wear to a Rolfing session?Because I need to see your structure before, during and after a session, most clients, both men and women go through the sessions in their underwear. A two piece bathing suit is also an option for women. Once you are on the table, you will have a sheet or blanket covering you. Can children be Rolfed?Children can greatly benefit from Rolfing. Rolfing can correct childhood structural patterns. Rolfing can help with pigeon toes, knocked-knees, rounded shoulders, and scoliosis. Rolfing has also been beneficial in relief of adolescent growing pains. Sessions with children are gentle, and do not require as much time, since the patterns are not ingrained. A full 10 Series usually doesn't take place until the teenage years. |
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Meg Maurer, Certifed Rolfer | Movement Practitioner | NCTMB Massage Therapist |