How does Structural Integration differ from other bodywork?

Structural integration is a holistic system that works directly with the body’s fascia to align and balance the body in relation to gravity. We treat the whole body because we understand the body is an interconnected system, and work in any area will have an impact globally. In my practice, I emphasize the fact that pain is not a source of dysfunction, but a sign of an imbalance that the body is attempting to rectify. Relief, then, is often not found by just working the point of pain, but by finding balance to the structures it is in relation to.

What is fascia?

Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds and supports all of the muscles, bones, and organs in your body. This fascial net, or connective tissue matrix, is the body's internal system of flexible support - giving it strength and shape. The fascial system responds to injury, chronic tension, and habitual movement patterns by shortening from both the forces of gravity and the mechanical forces of habitual movement patterns. When your fascia shortens, thickens, and becomes glue-like, it locks in less-than-optimal patterns of strain and pulls your body out of alignment.

Why do you recommend ten sessions?

The Ten Series is a system developed by Dr. Ida P Rolf that starts with the outermost layers of the body and works its way deeper so that space is being made along the way to create lasting change.  Each session is unique and targeted to a specific area of the body, taking you on a journey toward alignment.  Just as each session builds upon the previous, each session is also an opportunity to build and expand your awareness of how each part operates, so that by the end of the series you have the confidence to move through the world as a smoothly functioning and coordinated whole. 

For a more detailed breakdown of the series, see our sessions page

What should I expect?

Get to know your body and say hello to feeling better physically and emotionally.

Sessions begin with a visual assessment - both standing and walking - before beginning hands-on work.  While receiving the work, you’ll be asked to engage in certain movements to activate the areas we are focusing on.  We’ll also discuss ways in which the area of focus may resonate in your physical and emotional life. Sessions conclude with simple movement exercises to bring awareness to the work we’ve done, and reinforce how that relates to your everyday motions.

Each session targets a specific area of your body. You might feel slightly unbalanced as the work to your fascia settles and your body relearns certain movements while in alignment.