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Frequently Asked Questions
How does Rolfing compare with massage and other bodywork?
As a hands-on therapy, Rolfing is similar to deep-tissue massage. However, the focus in
Rolfing is more on releasing the continuous fabric of connective tissue than on relaxing
individual muscles. The work itself is done without oils or lotion and the quality of touch
tends to be slower and more deliberate than massage. The underlying goal is to improve
structural alignment and balance, so each session includes some observation and
assessment, as well as exercises the client can do on their own.
Does Rolfing hurt?
In its early days Rolfing developed a reputation for being aggressive and often painful.
However, it continues to evolve and has left behind the "no pain, no gain" attitude that
prevailed in its early days. Most practitioners are very sensitive to each client's particular
comfort zone and try to work skillfully within that. While some of the work may feel
momentarily uncomfortable, much of it should feel good.
What happens in a session?
Sessions usually last 70 to 90 minutes. To begin I have first-time clients complete a
questionnaire on their health background and seek to determine what their particular goals
and expectations are. I then have them undress (down to their underwear or
gym/swimwear) and do some visual assessment, looking for any postural patterns. If the
client is interested, I may take photographs at this stage that allow for later comparison. I
then ask them to walk, turn and explore the range of motion in each of their joints, telling me
anything they notice about how these action feel. The client then lies down on a massage
table and I slowly apply manual pressure, asking them to move in various ways to release
and lengthen the connective tissue. I keep the client present (unlike in a pure "relaxation"
massage) and have them tell me what they notice as I'm working. Every now and them I get
them up off the table and moving around, to see what may have changed or needs work
next. Towards the end of the session I pay particular attention to the spine and do specific
work on the sacrum and neck. Once the client is off the table I do some post-session
assessment with them standing and walking. We conclude by exploring some stretches or
other movements he or she can do on their own, as well as talking about what they've
experienced.
How much does it cost?
My standard rate per Rolfing session is $120 (payable by cash or check only - no credit
cards).
Other rates may apply in special circumstances, such as outcalls or mini-sessions. Also, I
do reserve a few places at reduced rates for students and other low-income clients. If you
have any questions or concerns about payment, feel free to discuss you situation with me. A
free consultation (about 30 minutes) is available if you are curious and would like to decide if
the work is right for you.
Why ten sessions? Do I have to do all ten?
The 10-series is structured so that client and therapist can move through the client's body
in a comprehensive way, tracking changes in its relationship to gravity as they go along.
However, within the series there are appropriate stages to discontinue, should that be
necessary. Rolfing can be practiced in a variety of formats. For more information, read my
page on the Ten-Series.
Do the effects of Rolfing last?
Essentially, yes! The client has explored their whole body in its relationship to gravity,
learning new neuromuscular patterns. Awareness is really the key element in this process
and this often deepens for months after the series has been completed.
How often do I need to come back?
After a series is completed clients often chose to come back for "tune-up' every few
months, but this is optional.
How does Rolfing compare with massage and other bodywork?
As a hands-on therapy, Rolfing is similar to deep-tissue massage. However, the focus in
Rolfing is more on releasing the continuous fabric of connective tissue than on relaxing
individual muscles. The work itself is done without oils or lotion and the quality of touch
tends to be slower and more deliberate than massage. The underlying goal is to improve
structural alignment and balance, so each session includes some observation and
assessment, as well as exercises the client can do on their own.
Does Rolfing hurt?
In its early days Rolfing developed a reputation for being aggressive and often painful.
However, it continues to evolve and has left behind the "no pain, no gain" attitude that
prevailed in its early days. Most practitioners are very sensitive to each client's particular
comfort zone and try to work skillfully within that. While some of the work may feel
momentarily uncomfortable, much of it should feel good.
What happens in a session?
Sessions usually last 70 to 90 minutes. To begin I have first-time clients complete a
questionnaire on their health background and seek to determine what their particular goals
and expectations are. I then have them undress (down to their underwear or
gym/swimwear) and do some visual assessment, looking for any postural patterns. If the
client is interested, I may take photographs at this stage that allow for later comparison. I
then ask them to walk, turn and explore the range of motion in each of their joints, telling me
anything they notice about how these action feel. The client then lies down on a massage
table and I slowly apply manual pressure, asking them to move in various ways to release
and lengthen the connective tissue. I keep the client present (unlike in a pure "relaxation"
massage) and have them tell me what they notice as I'm working. Every now and them I get
them up off the table and moving around, to see what may have changed or needs work
next. Towards the end of the session I pay particular attention to the spine and do specific
work on the sacrum and neck. Once the client is off the table I do some post-session
assessment with them standing and walking. We conclude by exploring some stretches or
other movements he or she can do on their own, as well as talking about what they've
experienced.
How much does it cost?
My standard rate per Rolfing session is $120 (payable by cash or check only - no credit
cards).
Other rates may apply in special circumstances, such as outcalls or mini-sessions. Also, I
do reserve a few places at reduced rates for students and other low-income clients. If you
have any questions or concerns about payment, feel free to discuss you situation with me. A
free consultation (about 30 minutes) is available if you are curious and would like to decide if
the work is right for you.
Why ten sessions? Do I have to do all ten?
The 10-series is structured so that client and therapist can move through the client's body
in a comprehensive way, tracking changes in its relationship to gravity as they go along.
However, within the series there are appropriate stages to discontinue, should that be
necessary. Rolfing can be practiced in a variety of formats. For more information, read my
page on the Ten-Series.
Do the effects of Rolfing last?
Essentially, yes! The client has explored their whole body in its relationship to gravity,
learning new neuromuscular patterns. Awareness is really the key element in this process
and this often deepens for months after the series has been completed.
How often do I need to come back?
After a series is completed clients often chose to come back for "tune-up' every few
months, but this is optional.
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