How Structural Integration is different
than Massage
by Anita
Boser, LMP CHP
Structural Integration (SI) is the generic term for a specific therapy. There are several 'brand names' including:
Hellerwork
SOMA
Rolfing
KMI
Gravity
Structural Integration recognizes that gravity is the strongest physical
force that acts on the body. When a body is vertically aligned, gravity
is positive. An imbalanced body feels gravity as stress. The goal of SI
is to reorganize the body so that it more optimally uses gravity, resulting
in more support for balance and increased energy. Rather than treating pain
or tension symptoms, SI focuses on rebalancing the entire body returning
it to a more aligned and relaxed state.
Connective Tissue
Stress in any area of the body has an effect on every other part through
the connective tissue matrix. For instance, tension in the connective tissue
of the leg pulls the tissue throughout the torso. SI practitioners consider
the alignment and organization of the entire body, but each session works
very specifically on the parts that are pulling the body out of line.
Protocol
Ida Rolf invented a process of sequenced sessions, sometimes called the
'recipe' or 'series.' Depending on the brand of SI and the practitioner,
the protocol is for 10 to 13 sessions. In all cases, the first sessions
have goals of releasing the more surface connective tissue, the middle sessions
release the core tissues, and the final sessions integrate the sleeve and
core. The protocol creates momentum; each session builds on the previous
sessions for a cumulative effect. Also, there is an end-point, where the
client is empowered to incorporate the changes into her life and therefore
will need future sessions only after an accident, for occasional tune-ups,
or for advanced work at a later date.
Depth of Touch
SI is known for releasing locked places in the body. When the practitioner
has her hands on one part of the body, she is accessing many different places
that are connected throughout that layer. It is that connection that is
felt so deeply, because it creates lasting change. That does not mean it
must be painful. The client is always able to direct the practitioner's
depth and intensity.
Movement Education
SI helps you to become more aware of the way you use your body, so that
you can discover easier, fuller ways of moving in everyday activities such
as sitting, standing, and walking. Movement is how you change the patterns
that caused your tissue to rigidify in the first place. If you continue
to use the movement education from your sessions, you can expect your realignment
to continue beyond your appointments and for years to come.
Practitioners
SI practitioners have graduated from schools that specifically teach the
fundamentals of realigning the body in the gravitational field and the protocol
for achieving balance, as originally conceived by Ida Rolf and as developed
by her successors. SI is a field into itself, not a specialty of massage
or another therapy. The International Association of Structural Integrators
is the professional association of SI practitioners worldwide. Their website
is www.theiasi.org.
For more information:
In addition, these websites can connect you to local practitioners and answer
more of your questions.
www.hellerwork.com
www.rolfguild.org
www.rolf.org
www.soma-institute.org
www.anatomytrains.net
To schedule an appointment please call: 425-284-2120
Cash or check are accepted only, no Credit Cards
16 Central Way, Kirkland, WA 98033
425-284-2120 Office
206.755.4044 *Cell*
For more information regarding the services we provide
please email: info@xspaditions.com
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