Structural Integration
Structural Integration explores movement and function by organizing the structure of the body in relation to gravity.
What is Structural Integration?
Structural integration balances the body in gravity by organizing the fascia, the web of connective tissue. Fascia communicates with and surrounds all other tissues of the body including bones and joints, muscles, nerves, vessels, and organs, which is why it is so beneficial to organize it through this work.
Dr. Ida Rolf is the pioneer of Structural Integration and spent decades in research, anatomy, and studying movement and the body, to create the sequence and goals of the series. In the past 20-30 years, a variety of adaptations and schools of thought have emerged which all work to achieve similar goals within the series.
Ways to experience the work:
Soma Series - The best way to experience Structural Integration is through a series of 10-11 sessions. We work the body from the outside in, and the bottom up, integrating the work with the natural wisdom of the body. During sessions, you’ll get to work through compensation patterns that no longer serve you. Structural integration provides you an opportunity to expand your awareness of embodiment and movement.
Somassage® - A stand-alone, specialized form of bodywork that uses the fascial system, specific depth, and directionality to advance the client toward optimal efficiency, ease, and wellness. It addresses the full-body organization of the fascial structure while recognizing the unique qualities of each individual. This treatment can be a great introduction to structural integration and is typically the recommended maintenance after series work is completed.
Pelvic Floor Treatment - We will work to balance the pelvis and body with focus on the pelvic floor. All pelvic floor work is external with clear communication around what and where we are working.
Focused Treatment - can be scheduled as a 75 or 120 minute treatment. Working to balance the body around a specific issue.
Advanced Treatment - continue your exploration of movement and holding patterns.
In Structural Integration, we create a space together for the body, mind, and spirit to connect and align.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION?
Structural Integration can benefit you with:
Rehabilitation from injury
Recovery from surgery
Adapting to pregnancy, birth, and post-natal life
Managing and understanding chronic pain
Advancing your yoga or other movement practices
Reducing stress, anxiety, and depression
Deeping your spiritual journey and connection with your body
Soma Series Testimonials
“I am much straighter and feel that I have a better connection with my body than I did before. I know where and how I move or compensate. ”
Top row - before session 1. Bottom row - after session 11. E.M. Legal Office Aid
“I started the series to help improve my physical abilities after an injury 2 yrs ago. Since the conclusion of the series I have felt better than I did a decade ago.”
“I highly recommend Soma series with Jay! His innate ability to tune into the problem areas has resulted in profound changes in my body. We discovered tension in areas I previously had no clue could be helped via this type of bodywork. After years of foot pain (arch cramps, shin splints, etc.) I am feeling fundamental changes in my lower legs. I feel like the root cause is finally being addressed.”
“Feeling my body and how each part is separate and yet all work in harmony.”
Series Sessions
Sleeve Sessions
To start, the superficial fascia is first released and provides a foundation for the deeper core work in later sessions.
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Focus : Release the tissue surrounding the rib cage and lengthen the lower back.
Result: A sense of lightness and well-being, a more upright posture, and fuller, deeper breathing.
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Focus : The body’s foundation - lower legs and feet.
Result: A sense of being firmly grounded and in touch with reality.
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Focus: The relationship between the pelvis, rib cage, and shoulder girdle.
Result: Expanded breathing, greater relaxation, and more immediately available energy.
Core Sessions
To bring about the most profound benefits of work, we restructure, educate and enliven the center of your body: legs, pelvis, entire spine, and muscles that support you from deep within.
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Focus : Adjust and lengthen the center line, or core, that runs vertically through the body
Result: Better balance and freedom of movement. Walking takes a fraction of the energy typically expended.
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Focus : Release the muscles of the neck, face and head.
Result: More softened and relaxed appearance in the face, with increased self-reliance and personal power.
Integrative Sessions
These final sessions are the key to the lasting “effects” of Soma Structural Integration®. By focusing largely on integration and connectivity, we allow your body-mind to fully “own” this new way of moving and being in the world.
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Focus : Integrate first the lower, then the upper body in a new and more efficient manner.
Result: Less stress and increased energy as the body’s structure becomes better aligned with gravity.
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Focus : Release and integrate the arms and shoulders
Result: A lighter experience of the arms, greater ease through the shoulders, an experience of more connection through the entire torso.
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Focus: Integrate the whole body in a new and more efficient manner.
Result: Less stress and increased energy as the body’s structure become better aligned with gravity.
