Rolfing®
Structural Integration
Rolfing®
Structural Integration
Rolfing Structural Integration is a bodywork method centered around the fascial system and how the body functions in our gravitional field. Fascia is a weblike network that supports and penetrates all the main structures of the body- from each muscle cell to every muscle, bone, nerve and organ. It also holds us together like a big sac under our skin. Our posture and habits, as well as traumas and accidents, can affect our fascial, or soft tissue system, creating discomfort and pain, as well as a feeling of being ‘stuck’ or energetically blocked. Culture, family and society each make their own imprint on how we move and feel. Rolfing helps the client to become more aware of their own patterns, whether it be work related or daily life and how to overcome unnecessary holding and strain in everyday movements. In a Rolfing session we look at the client standing, as well as walking, to address how we can create more fluidity and ease in the body. Rolfing is a process, a dialogue between Rolfer and client, to unravel stresses and tensions in order to help the client get to know their body on a whole new level. The aim of the ten series is to restore flexibility and vitality of the body, clear blockages and free the energy that allows the person to live at his or her full potential.
Ida P. Rolf
(1896-1979)
Ida P. Rolf
(1896-1979)
Dr. Rolf was a revolutionary of her time. Studying biochemistry, she was one of the first woman to receive a PhD from Columbia University in New York. After working at Rockefeller Institute in the chemotherapy and organic chemistry departments as well as traveling and studying in Europe, Dr. Rolf became interested in alternative health practices in hopes to find solutions to the health problems of her family. Study of yoga, homeopathy, chiropractic and osteopathic methods as well as many other inspirations lead her to the formation of Rolfing, working in particular with the effect of structure on function within the neuromuscular fascial system. She worked closely with M. Feldenkrais, F.M Alexander and F. Perls, researching the body and the human condition. In 1971, she founded the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration in Boulder, Colorado, and in 1991 the European Rolfing Association came into being. Dr. Rolf’s work and legacy live on in the many Rolfers and teachers throughout the world, with gratitude and inspiration.
The Ten-Series
The Ten-Series
Ida Rolf created the Ten Series as a way to work through each part of the body in a particular sequence to address patterns and tension in order to achieve a more balanced body in relation to gravity. Each session has different goals and territory, and I work to build more body awareness and perception throughout the whole series. The first 3 sessions are focused on the ‘sleeve’, the more superficial layers of fascia, where I prepare for sessions 4-7 which dive deeper into the core structures. In Sessions 8-10 I integrate the work done in each session as well as addressing any further needs of the client. Each session begins and ends standing, with the client tuning into how the body is feeling before and after the work as well as suggestions and/or exercises to to continue the work after the session.
Meet Amy
Dance, music and movement have guided my life from the beginning. During my years of dancing professionally I experienced many injuries that lead me to a deeper understanding of my body, how it functions, and how important a holistic approach to recovery is. The body, mind and soul are connected and I believe that each much be nourished to achieve our full potential. I began to intensively study physiology in 2006, planning to go to medical school with the thought that I wouldn’t be able to continue dancing after an injury I sustained. Then I met my first Rolfer. She helped me get my body back on track and back onstage, with more dancing in Europe. Finding love and work in Hamburg, I began my Rolfing education, first at the original institute in Boulder and finishing at the European Rolfing® Association in Munich. What I love about Rolfing is the ability to go into another world of feeling and communication through touch, allowing my clients to let go, release old patterns and move forward with grace.
I grew up in Flint, Michigan, receiving an education in dance at the Flint School of Performing Arts. After a training period in New York City and performing with dance companies in Colorado and New Mexico I studied Physiology and Philosophy at the University of Colorado in Boulder, receiving a Bachelors of Art in 2010. After more dancing internationally I became a Certified Rolfer in 2018 at the European Rolfing® Association in Munich.
I enjoy teaching dance at the Contemporary Dance School Hamburg, and Onstage Training Centers, as well as giving training for professional dancers and for visiting international companies. Occasionally I assist choreographers/collaborators in creating work.
Things that inspire: walking in nature with my dog, eating home grown veggies, Qigong, meditation, and music.
What to Expect?
Your Health Starts Here
Contact Info
Phone
Address
Kanalstrasse 73, 22085 Hamburg
+49 151 56 68 10 85
Briefing
Before the first session we’ll have a short discussion of health history (major traumas/accidents/operations)
Duration
Each session is about 1-1.5 hours.
Bodyreading
Each session begins and ends with bodyreading in standing and walking.
What to Wear
The client wears underwear for the sessions (for women an over the shoulder strapped bra is recommended over a sports bra)
Between the Sessions
The time in between sessions can be from about a week to a month, depending on the individual needs of the client.
Touch
The touch, although with deep intention, is generally not painful.
After the Session
Sometimes the client will experience muscle soreness the following day. It’s recommended to drink plenty of water after each session.