Change

Image by chaps1 via Flickr

Rolfing re-aligns the body through releasing the chronic tension in the fascia, the connective tissue that holds us together. Everything from stress to major trauma creates tension or scar tissue in the fascial system. Over years the buildup of tension and compensating from it, bodies loose their elasticity and alignment.

Through the firm pressure of a Rolfer’s hand or arm the fascial restrictions gently release. As the fascia lengthens and relaxes so does the client. What once was a tight and painful low back; can quickly become a back that is flexible, strong and relaxed.

For this to occur and last other areas beyond the back must be released and organized. When a back has been tight for years, much more than the back is tight. The deep soft tissue structures of the abdomen, pelvis and legs directly impact the back. If the back tightness is to be freed, these other areas must be released also. The added benefit to this significant release is that the change is much more likely to last because the entire body is more organized.

The key to Rolfing’s success is that a Rolfer not only works with the areas of the symptoms, but also the other areas that are setting up the problems. This whole body approach is not much different than a contractor first squaring the foundation to prevent the cracks in the walls from returning.

For a more comprehensive explanation on Rolfing, please visit align.org.