What is Structural Integration?

Developed by Dr. Ida Rolf in the 1940s, Structural Integration (also known as Rolfing) is a form of bodywork in which the therapist manipulates the body’s pervasive fascial system to enhance health, improve performance, and relieve pain.

Dr. Rolf’s original program consisted of 10 one hour sessions. Other schools now teach variations of her original program, but they are all grounded in her work, concepts and ideas.

Tom Myer’s was a student of Dr. Rolf in the 1970s. While teaching anatomy at the Rolf Institute, he discovered and began to popularize the concept of myofascial meridians throughout the body. These vertical train lines reveal a physical map of myofascial connection that can distribute strain and stress through the body when we are standing, sitting or moving.

Myer’s went on to develop Anatomy Train Structural Integration, which adds two extra sessions to Dr. Rolf’s original recipe. Each session of the 12-series uses hands-on techniques to manipulate the myofascia (muscles and fascia) to reorganize the body’s structure and improve it's function. The goal of this work is to improve movement, postural alignment, balance and flexibility.

What is the ATSI 12-Series?

It’s a journey of the heart’s deepest yearning, that’s for sure.

The most meaningful goal of this work is to get you feeling like the best you.

Life is experienced through the body. The good, the bad, the buffalo.

The way we move or don’t move creates patterns, and habits inevitably take hold.

There are places where we live heavily, others we rarely frequent.

Restricted or cautious movement, strain and overuse thus ensues.

ATSI gives us the insight, the keys to the human body.

To unravel the root, unplug what’s stuck and reroute the flow.

“The needed bodywork is the bodywork where the soul is listened to, respected and given its outlet. The soul loves to move, to express, to be free, and hates domination and desertion… Listen to the soul. Love it. give it back it’s dance. Then give the soul a format for understanding, for integration and anchoring.”

-Marion Woodman

What can I expect?

I wish I could promise unicorns.

But as a very close second, when you book an ATSI bodywork session, you can expect to be seen.

Live and in full color.

Which can sound a little intimidating.

But what a tonic, to slow down and be seen clearly.

Sessions begin with a thorough body reading, taking detailed note of your form and structure.

Poetically, we witness & honor your life story and how it expresses itself through your body.

We notice what’s working well.

Catapulting off those resources, we make a plan.

What wants to feel better?

What would it be like to live with all parts of you in unison?

And maybe, with a little less ache and pain?

Should I do the 12 or 3 series?

Whether you’re in it for the long haul or not sure how far you’d like to go, we’ll always start by turning over the first three pebbles of the 12 series.

Session one, The Superficial Front Line, focuses on. opening the breath from the front, inspiring an energetic uplift and making space for the future.

Session two, The Superficial Back Line, helps you to find ground, and (re) learn how to stand on your own two feet.

Session three, The Lateral Lines, opens your sides, helping to spread your wings and balance your body’s innate stability system.

After session three, you may take these initial openings and part ways.

Or we carry on, moving deeper into the keys of your patterns and posture.

What should I wear?

Structural Integration is best received when wearing minimal clothing, such as underwear, a basic bra and shorts.

For clients who wear bras, please choose one that gives as much access to the back and spine as possible. A two piece bathing suit is also appropriate.

Most men receive the work in boxers, briefs or shorts.

No one is compelled to disrobe beyond their comfort level, other options include form fitting clothing such as running shorts, sports bra or close fitting tank top. Spandex is okay if it’s the only option, but not ideal.

On the day of your appointment, please do not apply moisturizers, lubricants, creams or oils to your skin, as it will impede our work together.

Your hand moves

and the fire’s whirling

takes on a different shape.

All things change when we do.

Ku Kai - 8th Century Zen Master