What is Fascia?

Fascia surrounds and supports all of the muscles, bones and organs in your body in continuous web-like layers. This fascial net, or connective tissue matrix, is the body’s internal system of flexible support - giving it strength and shape. The fascial system responds to injury, chronic tension and habitual movement patterns by shortening from both forces of gravity and the mechanical forces of habitual movement patterns.

When your fascia shortens, thickens and becomes gluelike, it locks in less-than-optimal patterns of strain and pulls your body out of alignment. Dr. Rolf’s work is based on the insight that your body is more at ease and functions most effectively when its structure is balanced along the vertical line of gravity. In this place, gravity gently lifts and supports your body rather than pulling it down. By systematically restoring the integrity of your fascial system, your body becomes aligned and the entire system can be a smoothly functioning and coordinated whole.

Dr. Rolf believed form determines function. Structural Integration can create a more adaptable and supportive form that can function more optimally in the field of gravity.

Why Gravity?

The field of gravity is an unseen force consistently interacting with the human body. Gravity is the overall forming energy. The ability of the body to be organized by gravity instead of disorganized by it, powerfully and vitally determines function. “ When the body gets working appropriately, the force of gravity can flow through. Then, spontaneously, the body heals itself.” Ida P. Rolf

How do I prepare for my first session?

Refrain from using lotion or oils on your body except for hands, feet and face are fine. Do not eat a big meal or do a rigorous workout right before a session. Bring or wear undergarments that you feel comfortable standing, walking, and receiving the work in. Men typically wear briefs, or athletic shorts. Women typically wear brief style underwear, boy shorts and loose fitting bra or cami, athletic shorts or bikini. Tight sports bras are challenging to work around. Shorts must be no longer than mid thigh, loose and movable. Please let me know if you have any special needs or concerns. I have top sheets as well, for extra comfort.

How is SI different from massage?

SI affects body posture and structure over the long-term. Unlike massage, which often focuses on relaxation and relief of muscle discomfort, SI is aimed at improving body alignment and functioning through a well planned systematic approach over 10 sessions. SI is different from deep-tissue massage, in that practitioners are trained to create overall ease and balance throughout the entire structure, rather than focusing on areas presenting with tension. As a structure becomes more organized, chronic strain patterns ease, along with pain and stress.