Patterns in the body

The process of Structural Integration includes releasing holding patterns that are contributing to imbalance in the body and introducing new ones that make the body look and feel longer, stronger and more at ease. Posture or movement patterns can be favourable or not, depending on how well they serve the body's well-being.

Patterns of imbalance range from subtle to severe and while they may have been served the body in the past, they become a hindrance to the body when they are "locked" inside and are unable to release. Contracting in response to pain, holding the breath to block emotions, "inheriting" the awkward postural  habits of a parent, or slouching to accommodate a computer terminal are examples of patterns that can make the body stiff, rigid, and painful.

For example, when someone has a sprained ankle, the body shifts as much weight as possible onto the uninjured side of the body to protect the injured ankle from further pain. This shift affects how the body stands in gravity and creates an imbalance on one side of the body as it is forced to carry an uneven distribution of weight. As the ankle heals, the body does not automatically shift back from its unbalanced position, for it has learned a new way to cope with injury and a pattern is established.

Through Structural Integration, the body lets go of old habits and patterns that do not serve the body well in exchange for a feeling of freedom and strength that comes from standing upright.

"This is the gospel of Rolfing: when the body gets working appropriately, the force of gravity can flow through. Then, spontaneously the body heals itself." - Dr. Rolf