Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/561254
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2015 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | 25 WHAT TO EXPECT A Rolfer wants to know the current condition of your body, and why you came for a Rolfing session. Is there a special problem area right now? Do you have ongoing or chronic areas of pain or discomfort? Are you looking to improve performance or reduce imbalances? Are there related health issues or previous injuries that your Rolfer should consider? You will be asked to stand briefly facing different directions and to walk back and forth so the Rolfer can assess your body's structure. en you will be asked to lie down on a massage table, frequently on your back but sometimes on your belly or either side. As the Rolfer works, they may find new areas of tension not seen while standing and then adjust the session to address those additional areas. A Rolfer is always sensitive to the degree of acceptable pressure for each client and will pay attention to areas of special tension and resistance. You may be asked to stand up or walk a bit during the session to test structural changes. You might also sit on a bench for full back work, usually at the end of a session. Structural integration is not massage and is never conducted with a client naked. For men, a good outfit to wear for a Rolfing session is gym shorts. For women, a swimsuit works well while an open-backed sports bra allows for the best central back work. Rolfing sessions last from 60 to 90 minutes. Sheets, blankets and pillows provide comfort and stability during the session. e results of one Rolfing session may be subtle or dramatic, but the results of a series of sessions are cumulative and often impressive. At the WAC, you can schedule one session, three sessions, or a comprehensive "10 Series" that integrates one's entire body over 10 sessions. CREATING CHANGE While the goal of a massage is often to reduce tension and increase relaxation, the goal of Rolfing is to create actual change. Ease and relaxation usually occur, but they are byproducts of an improved structure. Clients report general and specific changes of many kinds. Here are some comments from a few of my past clients: • "For the first time since my back surgery four years ago, I can sleep on my right side." • "My migraines have just disappeared." • "Last year was the first Northwest winter I have ever spent pain-free. My joints did not ache as they usually do in our wet season." Whether it's to ease pain, enhance flexibility, relieve stress, increase balance, or improve athletic performance, Rolfing can help. Tom Robinson holds a doctorate degree in education from Stanford University and worked as a management consultant and college professor before becoming a Certified Rolfer. He is also a Licensed Massage Practitioner. Contact him through the Wellness Center at 206.839.4780. J O H N B A N G ( 4 )