Frequently Asked Questions
What is meant by Structural Integration?
Rolfing, or structural integration is a form of bodywork that reorganizes the connective tissues, called fascia, that permeate the entire body. Structural Integration also releases the body from lifelong patterns of stress and tissue adhesions, tension, and bracing.
Is Structural Integration the same as Rolfing?
Structural Integration was originally developed in 1971 by biochemist, Dr. Ida Rolf, for which Rolfing is appropriately named.
How is Structural Integration different from massage?
Structural integration requires hands-on work, much like massage, but its intent is very different.
Structural integration addresses the fascia and structures of the body.
Movement and stretches are used during a session to augment the bodywork.
Somatic techniques are used to build body awareness and improve the mind-body connection.
If you are going through the series, a journal is provided to help further integration of the mind-body.
S.I. practitioners are trained in specific work that includes the mouth, nose, and pelvic floor. This work is unique to S.I.
You will be clothed during your session. In massage, one usually is not.
Massage moves fluids in the body such as blood and lymph. S.I. does not work with these fluids.
You may be sent home with suggested exercises and given tools for self-maintenance.
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Do you Accept Insurance?
I accept PIP (auto accident) insurance, HSA and FSA.
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I am not currently contracted with any one insurance company. What I can provided is a "super bill". This receipt allows you to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
What can I expect during a session?
Before your session we will do a "body reading." This is a postural analysis that allows me to visualize tensional patterns in the body.
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During a session you will receive hands-on manual therapy. At times you will be asked to move to enhance the effect of a stroke or assist in releasing a fascial adhesion. Breathing exercises are used to help enhance the work and relax the body. At times we may do stretches on or off the table.
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After your session, you're going to feel better!
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Does Soma S.I. Hurt?
No, S.I. does not hurt. However, at times we may work in an area with more intensity.
As your practitioner, my goal is to work with you and at a pace your body can accept. That requires that I work slowly and respect the boundaries your body places on itself. If for some reason during a session you feel pain we will try a different approach. If that still does not work, then I must respect that and move to a different area. In time, most sensitive areas will allow future work as the rest of the body comes into balance.
What is Somatics?
Somatics addresses the mind-body connection. S.I. strongly holds that the mind and body are connected and influence one another. In S.I. we use exercises to help release pent-up tension that weighs on us emotionally and physically. Some of these techniques involve breathing, mindfulness exercises, movement exploration, and focusing on physical sensation.
Somatic therapy is known to help those with PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
What is Structural Integration good for?
Structural Integration has the ability to dramatically alter a person's posture and structure. SI can potentially resolve discomfort, release tension and alleviate pain. Rolfing SI aims to restore flexibility, revitalize your energy and leave you feeling more comfortable in your body.
Do you undress for Soma Structural Integaration?
Female clients wear underwear, bra, sports bra, jogging shorts, or a bikini swimsuit. Men typically wear shorts. Any other variations will need to be discussed with me ahead of time. Thongs are not appropriate. At no time will a client be nude during any session.
What can I expect from the 11-Series?
The 11-series is a powerful systematic approach to healing the body.
Each 11-series is unique to the individual. Throughout the series we address nearly every structure of the body. Many report feeling like their body has "reset". Often we address all of your old injuries and then help your body to let down its guard and allow you to move as you once did.
As your body awareness improves, often times ones own habits, emotional well-being, and resilience do too. The journey book helps my clients to identify if they need further support from a therapist, physician, family, or friends. You will learn how powerful your intuition can be as you seek to heal from scars of the past. If you are interested in receiving this powerful work, please reach out to me.
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