Rolfing does not achieve perfection; it begins the process. Its goal is to establish balance in gravity. The ten-hour cycle is a first step in that direction. Rolfing is an ongoing process that continues long after the work has been completed.
from Rolfing and Physical Reality by Ida Rolf
the Rolfing Ten-Series®
The Rolfing Ten-Series is a total makeover for your posture and movement patterns. It is an investment that unlocks better posture, greater ease of movement, and lifelong awareness. By following a protocol developed by Dr. Ida Rolf, we will rework your structure from head to toe. Each session has a postural and functional goal, and is tailored to your specific needs. Sessions rewire your movement patterns and postural habits through fascial manipulation and movement work.
Though a typical series occurs over 10 weeks, we maintain flexibility to adjust the pace based on your body and schedule. A Rolfing Ten-Series can be divided into three phases. If you are not ready to do the 10 series over the course of two or three months, longer breaks can be taken in between each phase. I do, however, recommend keeping sessions of each phase closer together.
Phase I: The "Sleeve" — Establishing Surface Balance (Sessions 1-3)
These first three sessions focus on the outer, superficial layers of your body (the “sleeve”). We work to create space and freedom in the breath and address primary restrictions that affect your entire movement pattern.
Session 1: Better Breathing and Lighter Posture. We create freedom in the chest and shoulders, allowing for fuller, easier respiration and a feeling of release in the upper body. Greater adaptability in your upper body prepares you for the change in your foundation (feet and legs) in your second session.
Session 2: Grounded Support and Stability. We lengthen the back line of your body and organize your feet, giving you a more stable and aware foundation for walking and standing.
Session 3: Front-to-Back Balance. This session ties together the upper and lower body by balancing your sides and deepening the relationship between your pelvis, ribs, and shoulders
Phase II: The "Core" — Deepening Structural Support (Sessions 4-7)
This phase moves inward, focusing on the deep, intrinsic muscles and fascia (the “core”) that govern stability and primary movement patterns.
Session 4: Deep Pelvic Support. We begin balancing your pelvis by working the deep, midline structures of the legs to create internal support for your organs and spine. Your gait will begin to feel longer, and your chest more lifted.
Session 5: Lengthening the Front Line. This session continues the work of the 4th session, opening the entire front of your body, targeting muscles (like the psoas) crucial for a relaxed and efficient walking gait.
Session 6: Freeing the Spine. We focus on freeing the back surface and hip joints, helping to unlock the sacrum (the base of your spine) for improved mobility and reduced lower back strain.
Session 7: Clarity and Integration. This session completes the core work by ensuring your head is balanced and free to move atop your spine. It addresses the neck, jaw, and may include detailed work in the face and mouth.
Phase III: Integration — Unifying the Body (Sessions 8-10)
Sessions 8 and 9: Functional Integration. These sessions are highly personalized, reinforcing the new patterns across multiple joints and movements, often focusing on the lower body (Session 8) and upper body (Session 9). You will leave feeling “put together” and more cohesive.
Session 10: Lasting Balance. This final session is about integration and closure. We ensure the structural shifts are fully integrated into your natural movement patterns. This is where we say goodbye for a while, allowing your body to continue integrating the work over the next several months.
Post Ten Series Work
Post ten series work can take many forms. Occasional single sessions, a three series of sessions, regular monthly work, or movement integration sessions are all good options and we can discuss what is best for you.