What is Structural Integration?

Structural Integration (SI), is a deep-tissue approach to manual therapy combined with somatic education and movement, that explores the possibility of change in how you use and experience your body. Developed by Ida P. Rolf, Structural Integration systematically addresses your body as a whole, usually following a specific sequence of deep tissue work and sensorimotor education over the course of ten sessions, with each session building upon the previous. Each session has specific structural goals which aim to balance and align the body’s structure within the field of gravity through working with the connective tissue, or fascia.

What is fascia and what is its role in Structural Integration?

Structural Integration strives to align and balance the body’s components until the entire system is a smoothly functioning coordinated whole. This works through addressing the body’s internal system of flexible support, otherwise known as fascia. These connective tissues surround every muscle fiber, encase all joints and even have a role in the nervous system. The fascial system is like an intricate internal guide-wire network for the body. If one set of support wires becomes tight or out of place, the excess tension may appear as nagging joint pain, muscle soreness, or a postural shift.

SI practitioners use direct pressure to release fascial holdings and allow the body to find health through the re-establishment of balance. It is currently believed that the techniques of SI stimulate intra-fascial mechanoreceptors (sensory neurons of the muscle nerve), which in turn trigger the nervous system to reduce the tension of the related muscles and fascia. Put another way, SI allows the brain and nervous system to “re-boot” areas of the body that are receiving too much electrical stimulation (chronically tight or sore muscles). Once a healthy level of muscle tone is established, the person’s entire structure is free to express a pain-free form.

What are the benefits of Structural Integration?

Structural Integration aims to affect the whole person, emotionally, physically and energetically, by way of using sensorimotor education and manual therapy to align and balance the physical structure. Clients often find that as the body comes into greater alignment, aspects of the self may also become more aligned. Structural Integration may help promote positive change through easing chronic pain, improving posture, increasing breath capacity, improving energy and increasing body awareness and presence. While this describes some general benefits, the SI process is individual and personal, with a wide range of effects and benefits.

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