The Ten Series

Rolfing® Structural Integration is a way of reversing the negative, or harmful effects that gravity often has on the body. Rolfers™ use what is known as The Ten-Series to do this. The Ten Series has a synergistic quality with its results being far more profound and lasting than just receiving isolated sessions. It is a method that systematically works on specific regions of the body. Done over the course of 10 sessions, the sequence, is essential for optimizing the body’s ability to provide support. Various manual touch techniques are used to gently stretch, lengthen and redirect the fascia into a place of greater efficiency. Along with the optimized support, the contact from the work renews spatial perceptions. This provides a more detailed, clearer 3-D mental map or awareness of the body. This is vital for affecting chronic patterns of pain or more specifically, establishing the needed functional efficiency. By focusing on patterns of health in this way, many of the Benefits of Rolfing are achieved.

Within the realm of the Ten Series are uniquely catered sessions. No ten-series will ever be the same. Each session works to establish a higher level of support. It works to find a support that compliments the person's unique structure. Each session specifically addresses the individual’s personal relationship to gravity. The Ten-Series is a guide to follow. Given that each person's relationship with gravity is different, the Ten-Series is only a map, the actual terrain or route covered will vary depending on nuances such as lines of tension, movement patterns and body awareness.

The Ten-Series can be completed over the course of several months. Each session is usually spaced out between one or two weeks. This time is important because it allows the body to adjust and adapt to the shifts. Even months after completion of the Ten-Series, the body will continue to adapt and change to the new postural pattern. The positive changes from the Ten Series can stay with someone for many years or longer. At times, people choose to come back for additional work after their series. For this it is recommended that a waiting period of 3 to 6 months be taken in order for integration of the previous work to settle. Post-Ten work is typically done over 3 or 5 sessions.

Ten-series' Themes: Sleeve, Core and Integrative

The flow of the Ten Series separates sessions into three themes. They are known as sleeve, core and integrative. All themes work to prepare the body for the next higher level of support.

Sessions 1 through 3 are sleeve sessions. These sessions address the superficial layers of fascia and prepares the body for deeper work. These sessions unwrap layers of tension, and help a client find more breath along with greater dynamic support.

Session 1 covers the arms, ribcage, diaphragm along with other areas like the hamstrings. This session initiates the opening of the layers as well as allows for finding deeper breath.

Session 2 addresses the foundation by balancing the muscles and tissues of the feet and lower leg.

Session 3 works from a side-lying position to address the 3-D relationship of the head, shoulder, chest and pelvis.

Sessions 4 through 7 are core sessions. They focus on the mid-line and structures close to the spine to provide length and postural lift. Rolfers look for lift as the hallmark of the body counteracting the pull of gravity. By gently lengthening and separating the outer structures, it allows the body a greater capacity to assert strength.

Session 4 addresses the inner line from the inner arch of the foot to the pelvis and pelvic floor.

Session 5 covers the chest and abdomen. It balances the abdominal muscles and its relationship to the back by affecting muscles like the psoas.

Session 6 covers the back line creating more support from the legs, pelvis and lower back.

Session 7 primarily focuses on the head and neck.

Sessions 8 through 10 are for integrating the changes from previous sessions so that the body can function as a whole rather than isolated components. More attention is placed on movement education to assist the client in embodying the work in a very lasting sustainable way.

Sessions 8 and 9 are two halves of a whole. One session will cover regions of the upper body while the other will cover the lower body. The choice is dependant on what is needed most for establishing support and adaptability.

Session 10 is closure and addresses the whole body to further help someone integrate and embody the shifts.