Structural Integration
The continuing pull of gravity, the stress of daily activities and physical injuries can pull the body out of alignment. When the body is out of alignment it creates inefficiency and imbalance resulting in stiffness, discomfort and loss of energy.
When a body is aligned and balanced it moves with greater ease. It requires less energy to function. Good structure is effortless and breathing is easier. The body becomes more flexible, more coordinated and athletic performance improves.
Rolf Structural Integration focuses not on the muscles but on their protective layer, called fascia (also known as connective tissue). Muscles are contractive tissues that give the body and organs physical movement. The fascia surrounds the muscles, bones and organs in the body. The fascia gives muscles their shape and the body its structure. When the body is out of alignment, the fascia gradually shortens, tightens and adjusts to accommodate the misalignment.
Structural Integration aligns and balances the body by lengthening and repositioning the fascia. As fascia is lengthened it allows the muscles to move more efficiently. The practitioner applies pressure to the body, working the entire fascial network in a systematic way. When restricted fascia is released and lengthened the body can return to its structurally optimal position.
Bodywork that Benefits You
It is a challenge to express in words the essence of Bodywork, as the beauty and power of the work are revealed through the silence of touch.
As a body worker my goal is to offer the best care, intention, direction, and relief of mental and physical fatigue.
Bodywork is the application of hands-on techniques long recognized for the purpose of increasing the range of motion as well as improving stamina and overall performance. It also relieves muscle spasm and tension and enhances muscle tone.
Everyday life is not accomplished without tissue issues. Think about how uncomfortable you are when something aches. In order to increase or continue with the same level of performance, we walk a fine line of fitness, trying to push the line out further without stepping over it. Often the crossover is not noticed until it is too late. Overloading, mistakes, missteps, poor conditioning, poor nutrition, repetitive motions, sedentary lifestyles, can cause tissue adhesion’s in the muscles, which restrict motion, create discomfort and a negative disposition.
Injuries and some surgical procedures can lay down scar tissues placing tension on surrounding tissues which needs to be addressed as well as the scar tissue. Once restrictions are removed bodies, in humans and horses, can coordinate and work in its intended manner. The less wear and tear on a body gives way to longer performances and enhanced skills.
In the end, when all is said and done, Bodywork provides comfort and feels good!
