What to Expect, Hayden Integration, Gentle Rolfing for Healthy Alignment

Testimonials

Working with Chris has helped me feel better in my body than I have for 25 years, and more like myself as well. I had been in pain for so long that I had stopped noticing how it prevented me from doing simple things like going for walks. Now I'm back to walking without pain, and finding it easier to play the flute and violin than ever before. Finally, the way my music teachers always wanted me to use my body has become something I can do!

- Barbara, retiree, age 65

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What to Expect

Before your first session, we will sit down and discuss your health history, personal goals, and any questions you have about Rolfing® Structural Integration. This initial consultation is free and takes about half an hour.

If we then decide that Structural Integration is right for you, we will create a plan that matches your needs. Depending on your goals, you can opt for either individual sessions or the "Ten Series." The Ten Series, created by Dr. Rolf, covers the entire body in a methodical way over the course of ten sessions, usually spaced a week to a month apart. I often suggest the Ten Series for first-time clients, because it develops in a way so that each session builds on the sessions before it.

Sessions last 75 minutes. Before and after each session, we will have a chance to assess your structure and movement to see how the work is progressing. This usually involves walking, doing knee bends, lifting your arms, and similar activities that engage your structure. We will use this assessment to help plan our next session.

It is important that you be comfortable, so any level of clothing is acceptable. Clients typically wear underwear for the sessions. You could also wear a swimsuit or T-shirts and shorts or jogging pants.

During a session, you will usually be lying on a padded table, while I use my hands and arms to put slow, sustained pressure on the tissue of your arms, legs, back, and so on, moving it in certain directions. This helps release areas that are too tightly bound together or sometimes remove some of the slack from an area. Working slowly allows your body to repattern itself at a pace that is both effective and comfortable.

While this is happening, I will ask you to participate in the process. For example, I might ask you to stretch your arm overhead while I work on your shoulder, or breathe into the sides of your body. This causes your tissue to change faster and it helps reeducate your body's movement patterns, making them more efficient.

At no time during a session will I ask you to go beyond your level of comfort. Sensations may arise that are sometimes unpleasant or intense and other times pleasant. The important thing is that you be present with what is happening, not tensed up or withdrawing mentally. If I feel that I'm working too deeply and causing your body to tense up, I will lighten up or slow down so that your body can process the changes more effectively.

After a session, I will suggest that you respond to the needs of your body as they arise. Many people find themselves thirsty, hungry, or sometimes needing a nap. Often it is good to take a short walk, time and weather permitting, to promote the changes from the session.