Rolfing^® FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Rolfing

  What conditions can Rolfing help with?

  How many sessions do I need?

  What exactly happens during a Rolfing session?

  What are the long-term benefits of Rolfing?

  Can children benefit from Rolfing?

  What about contra-indications?

  What conditions can Rolfing help with?

Clients and practitioners have reported improvements in many conditions after a series of Rolfing sessions. The primary aim of Rolfing is the improvement of structure, posture and movement. Therefore, any overall lack of well being that relates to these issues can be responsive to Rolfing. The improvement of structure through Rolfing is a process designed to benefit the whole person. It is not a therapy for medical conditions.

  How many sessions do I need?

This will depend on your personal aim. For the relief of a particular discomfort between one and three sessions may be enough to yield improvement. However, if your aim is a long term change in your overall sense of well being for body and mind, the ERA recommends ten sessions spaced around two weeks apart as Dr. Rolf originally advised. Each session builds on the progress made in the previous session. The time lapse between each session allows the client to physically adapt to new patterns of movement and reflect on what has been learned and accomplished so far.

  What exactly happens during a Rolfing session?

The Rolfer will begin with a short program of observation in which the client will be asked to stand, walk or sit. When the observations are complete the client will be asked to lie on a padded table similar to a massage table. The Rolfer will then use his hands to apply sensitive and precise pressure to specific areas of the body. Some of the treatment may involve sitting or standing. Clients may also learn new ways of moving and will be eased out of old habits or movement patterns that are negative to the whole person.

  What are the long-term benefits of Rolfing?

Many mind-body factors affect how Rolfing is received and perceived by each person. Therefore, the long term effects are entirely individual. How well a client is able to engage with their own body and how great their individual capacity for change will influence the initial outcome and long term benefits. The key objective of Rolfing is always improved structure and optimised function. Optimising function is personal. A small improvement for one client may represent a significant personal achievement for another.

 Can children benefit from Rolfing?

Young people with a variety of issues may benefit from Rolfing and it is a superb way to introduce them to holistic and preventative health care practices. Sessions tend to be shorter and less frequent for children and are designed around the child’s individual needs.

 What about contra-indications?

Of course if you think you may be ill you should consult your general practitioner. There are specific conditions that are not suitable for Rolfing and these will be fully explored before any intervention is started.