Rolf Method of Structural Integration

Jonathan Tortorice

In 1996, Jonathan Tortorice earned his Bachelor's degree from CU-Boulder in neurobiology (technically a Psych. degree) and then worked for approximately 9 years in research. Throughout college and for some years after, he spent a great deal of time and effort searching for relief from a host of physical maladies. In 1999, he received the Rolf Method Structural Integration "Ten Series" as a client. Jonathan's life was transformed by the series and he subsequently began private studies with a master bodyworker while continuing to work full-time as a member of CU research faculty. He continued to explore his new-found talents through extensive private training which included a broad array of movement, yoga, breathwork, meditation, body awareness, and bodywork as he expanded his knowledge of neuroanatomy to include structural anatomy.

Realizing his true passions lie in the field of health / wellness / bodywork, Jonathan left his career in research. In 2006, he completed his official bodywork training in Structural Integration (a.k.a. Rolf Method Structural Integration or SI for short). Having excelled in his SI training, he was recruited in 2007 to train as a Trauma Release Therapy Specialist. Now Jonathan is delighted to have joined the community of practitioners at Standley Lake Massage Therapy clinic as their Rolf Method Structural Integration practitioner.

The Process

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration consists of a series of ten sessions lasting about 1¼ hours each and spaced a week or two apart. Each session builds upon the progress of the previous session so that the results are cumulative. The goal of the first seven Rolf Method of Structural Integration sessions is to remove strain from specific areas of the body such as the lower back, neck and knees. The remaining sessions organize and align the body as a whole, resulting in better balance, enhanced freedom of movement and a higher level of energy.

Following the initial series, Rolf Method of Structural Integration"tune-ups" may be undertaken after a suitable time has elapsed to allow the body to settle into a new alignment.

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration can:

  • Promote well being by enhancing your body's pattern of organization
  • Improve your athletic performance
  • Ease aches and pains due to lack of mobility
  • Enhance your personal growth

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What You Can Expect

Rolf Method of Structural Integration practitioners are trained to see a body's structural organization. First, the client is observed in his or her undergarments, which are worn throughout the session. Next, he or she is photographed, usually front, back and side views, to document the alignment before the Rolf Method of Structural Integration begins. Then, the client lies on a massage table while the practitioner uses fingers, knuckles and occasionally an elbow to move and reposition tissue. There may be occasional discomfort associated with this stretching and loosening, but it does not persist after the tissue is released.

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Results

The results of the Rolf Method of Structural Integration are as varied and complex as the people experiencing these changes. Many people feel a lift or lightness of the body as the head and chest go up, as the trunk lengthens and the pelvis becomes more horizontally aligned. The joints throughout the body regain freedom of movement, feeling as if they have been oiled. There is less pitching from side to side in walking and less resistance with each step. Some people report emotional changes such as an enhanced and more positive self-image, greater ease in interpersonal relationships and increased self-confidence.

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