Holistic Health December 2007
The Legacy of Ida Rolf, Ph.D.
Structural Integration of the Human Body
by Archie Underwood
“When the body gets working appropriately, the force of gravity can flow through. Then, spontaneously, the body heals itself.” - Ida Rolf, Ph.D.
Ida Rolf Ph.D. developed her unique method of working with the body after many years of practicing Tantric Yoga and studying multiple holistic disciplines including Osteopathy, Homeopathy, Chiropractic and the Alexander Technique. Dr. Rolf also had experience with, and training in, the scientific side of connective tissue and how it responds to chemical and physiological changes. Although initially she presented her work in a very scientific, westernized way, this melding of disciplines was and is the basis for her unique form of body work.
Using Yoga’s theory of evolving the human structure for higher states of consciousness through physical change combined with deep hands-on work, she began to develop Structural Integration. Her experience studying the biochemistry of connective tissue told her that putting energy, pressure and/or heat into fascia (the soft tissue component of connective tissue that permeates the human body) will cause it to shift and change shape as well as change chemical structure. Finding length where needed by releasing immobilized fascia and seeking balanced tone in the body is the primary goal of Structural Integration. Gradually, Dr. Rolf’s theory of increased vitality through the proper alignment of the body’s connective tissue began to take shape.
What began with a trial and error approach based on established techniques developed into a cohesive theory of how the body’s structure functions in gravity. The concept of “the line”, which is present in all well-organized bodies, began to form as well. When a body is organized, this line extends from the crown down, in front of the spine and through the center of the pelvic floor. Without it, we find ourselves unbalanced, unstable, and working against the pull of gravity instead of in harmony with it.
Expansional Balance refers to the body’s unique ability to respond dynamically to all forces put upon it and involves the ability to expand the body rather than collapse it in response to external forces. Thus, gravity becomes a tool providing lift to the body. As I sink my weight into the floor, for example, I secure a stable foundation to stand upright
At times we can store emotions in the body. When these emotions become stuck in the connective tissue, chronic tension develops. This phenomenon is known as “body armoring” and is a way to disconnect from a part of the body that may hold an emotion we are not yet ready to deal with. The process of identifying the areas of emotional holding can be a powerful way to move past trauma as well as develop more confidence and integrity within the body.
In the 1950s, Dr. Rolf wanted to reach out to a group that would embrace her work and, more importantly, the theory that drives it. The Human Potential Movement was alive and well in the 60s and the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, CA was a powerful player in the advancement of alternative therapies. It proved to be an ideal location to spread Structural Integration to a receptive audience that was actively searching for new and innovative approaches to health. Fritz Perls, who is well known for Gestalt Therapy, received a series of sessions from Rolf while they were both working at Esalen. He was very grateful for the relief and began sending clients her way as well as spreading her praises throughout the Esalen community. The more she worked on people and became better known, the more she was met with an increasing demand to teach. It was around this period that her work gained the nickname “Rolfing”, as it is known by some to this day.
Eventually, schools began to form that taught Structural Integration. The Rolf Institute, started in 1971, and The Guild for Structural Integration were the first schools to teach Dr. Rolf’s work and they continue to this day. Later, other schools and styles began to emerge such as Hellerwork, KMI, Soma, and IPSB here in San Diego. All have a unique perspective on the vision of Ida Rolf, Ph.D. Although there are differences in style, the goal is always the same—to organize the body for a better relationship with gravity.
Archie Underwood, BA, HHP, practices Rolf Structural Integration and teaches at IPSB in San Diego, CA. He has been doing bodywork for nine years. To book a session or for more information, call 619.861.3232 or visit www.rolfsi.com