Balance, Strength, Efficiency
Rolfers® aid clients to become more aware of the signals our bodies send us, and offer resources to manage discomfort and stress. Clients who receive Rolfing® report increased awareness of their bodies, which in turn often deepens a sense of adaptability and support for many aspects of life.
My aim is to bring balance, strength, efficiency, and spaciousness to the body’s posture and movement patterns by improving joint alignment, increasing range of motion, and establishing body-wide coordination and continuity of movement. In our often hectic and stressful world, I am honored to work with clients to build on your resources, evoke the inherent order you already have within, and augment with tailor-made strategies to improve your quality of life.
Why Rolfing®
Learn more about the benefits of rolfing.
Holistic Body Work
Rolfing® Structural Integration offers more fluid ways to live in and use your body. Using hands-on tissue manipulation, movement, and somatic education, a Certified Rolfer® and client collaborate to develop new options for everyday life—whether it’s sitting at a desk, exercising, or standing in line at the grocery store.
While we are famous for working with fascia, Rolfing® emphasizes a holistic, whole body structural approach to have a systemic impact. We believe that symptom relief requires addressing the whole body, not just the parts that bother.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know Rolfing® is for me?
People come to Rolfing® to address chronic pain, poor posture, recent and past injuries, and to feel more at ease in their bodies--amongst other reasons. I welcome you to contact me for a free phone consultation to discuss how Rolfing may benefit you specifically.
What should I wear?
Access to bare skin is very helpful but your comfort is paramount. Loose fitting shorts and for those with breast tissue this includes a bra, sports bra, or tank top work well. I am happy to provide sheets if you'd like more coverage (or warmth).
Is Rolfing® like a massage?
Depending on the type of massage you’re used to, it may be quite different. Compared to massage for relaxation, the intentions of Rolfing® are to make more lasting change in the tissue and systematically address habitual patterns and posture rather than increase blood flow or relieve knots in muscles, for example. Rolfing® is generally more participatory and dynamic; we speak and check-in during the session so the whole mind and body are active. Afterwards, you may feel more enlivened than ready for a nap! Clients are also partially clothed (more info below).
Is Rolfing® safe if I'm pregnant?
I enjoy working with my pregnant clients to help them meet and welcome the changes that occur so quickly in their bodies. The kind of work we do depends on your stage of pregnancy and other health indicators, so it’s best we speak directly before scheduling an appointment. In some cases, I’ll ask for a note from a doctor or midwife. The Ten Series is not appropriate as we touch into deep structures in the abdomen.
What is a typical session like?
Initial sessions begin with reviewing intake forms, and addressing any questions you may have. All sessions will start with an assessment; I may ask you to walk or do a specific movement, or sense into your body and describe what you’re feeling. The majority of the session will be tissue work on the massage table, during which I’ll engage you to do small movements and check-in about how the work feels. We may conclude by repeating our initial assessment to see how things have changed.
Does Rolfing® hurt?
The short answer is no.
I check-in with clients throughout a session about what sensations they’re experiencing and if we are approaching any boundary, especially a pain threshold. Although some moments may be intense, the work should not have to hurt. Most people find Rolfing® a deeply satisfying and inspiring experience.
Then why have I heard it hurts?
Rolfing® became popular in the 1960s and 70s in a community where people believed that the more intense the experience, the more therapeutic it was. Many Rolfers™ from that era wanted to differentiate their work from a soothing massage and to emphasize how profound the experience was.
Since that time, Rolfers™ have evolved our touch to have more grace and less force. Greater change is possible when a client feels comfortable and safe.
Is your office accessible?
My office is located on the second floor, and currently there is no elevator access. I am happy to provide referrals for Rolfers or other practitioners with more accessible offices.