Being a big fan of massage, and having tried a number of different techniques, I have decided to consider a series of myofascial massages known as Rolfing, although I understand Rolfers prefer to call it “movement education”. I did some research, talked to a few people who have used this technique and it all sounds fascinating. If you have undergone Rolfing, I would love to hear what you have to say!
Rolfing is a massage technique developed by biochemist turned physical therapist Ida P. Rolf (1896-1979) who spent a good part of the 1930s studying osteopathy, homeopathy, chiropractic, yoga, the Alexander technique, and Korzybski’s work on states of consciousness. She authored several books on the relationship of form and structure in the human body, including Rolfing: The Integration of Human Structures (New York: Harper and Row, 1977). Rolfing is a sensitive hands on reading of tissue texture in order to determine imbalance which is then massaged to separate fascial tissue that has been pulled out of position by strain or injury.
Rolfers believe there is a correlation between muscular tension and pent-up emotions and that physical and emotional health depend on parts of the body being properly aligned--head, ankles, hips, thorax, pelvis, knees, shoulders, ears, etc., or problems of gravity will be felt.
Rolfers make use of fingers and in some cases, even an elbow to move the fascia, in order to stretch it and bring back its elasticity. Generally ten sessions are required for the three-stage treatment. The first step involves palpation, where the fascia tissues are closely examined by the therapist. In the second step, the therapist separates the fascia layers, which adhere to the muscles and during the final stage, the therapist brings physical balance to the gravitational field.
So if you are interested in pampering your senses, improving your balance, range of motion and posture, Rolfers say try Rolfing massage therapy to reorganize the entire body.
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