The Rolfing® Ten Series
For most people, the Ten Series is the best way to experience the benefits of Rolfing® Structural Integration. Each session builds on the previous ones, transforming the client in ways that ten unrelated sessions could not do. At the end of the series, clients have a whole new normal posture and set of movement habits. This new normal lasts and continues to improve for months after the completion of the series.
Although the Ten Series is generally recommended, it is certainly not required. The Ten Series 'recipe' is flexible and always adapted to the needs and goals of each client. Appointments are ideally spaced one to two weeks apart.
Although the Ten Series is generally recommended, it is certainly not required. The Ten Series 'recipe' is flexible and always adapted to the needs and goals of each client. Appointments are ideally spaced one to two weeks apart.
Session 1: Functional Breath
The goal of the first session is to increase the breath capacity and ease of breathing. Ideally, each breath brings a subtle rippling movement through the entire spine, and an expanding of the rib cage in all directions.
Session 2: Supportive Feet, Functional Walking
The goal of the second session is to help the body find support to counter the force of gravity. This is done primarily by increasing the adaptability of the feet and lower legs.
Session 3: Balance Front and Back
The third session addresses the lateral (side) line of the body, balancing the front with the back, and closing the superficial phase of the Ten Series. This session mobilizes and balances shoulders, hips, and the relationship between the pelvis and the ribs.
Session 4: Adaptable Pelvis
The fourth session addresses the medial (inside) line of the legs, helping to increase adaptability of the pelvic floor and provide support for the torso.
Session 5: Organize Core
The fifth session focuses on the abdominal region and the hip flexors, helping to balance freedom of movement with strong core support.
Session 6: Stack the Back
The sixth session works to bring length, mobility, and comfort to the whole back line of the body, from feet to head.
Session 7: Balance the Head Over the Body
The seventh session focuses on the shoulders, neck, head and jaw. This completes the deepest phase of the Ten Series.
Session 8: Functional Pelvic Girdle
The eighth or ninth (the order can be switched depending on the structure of the individual client) session aims for efficient functioning of the feet, ankles, legs, and hips.
Session 9: Functional Shoulder Girdle
The ninth or eighth (the order can be switched depending on the structure of the individual client) session aims for efficient functioning of the hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders.
Session 10: Integrate Changes
The tenth session closes the series with a whole-body approach, aimed at giving the client everything he or she needs to use the postural options and movement patterns developed over the course of the Ten Series.
AFTER THE TEN SERIES
Dr. Rolf suggested waiting six months to a year after receiving the Ten Series before receiving more Rolfing Structural Integration. This allows the client to fully integrate the changes brought about in the work. Unless a client gets injured or wants to try Efficient Movement Training, I recommend waiting at least three to six months after completing a Ten Series, before receiving post-ten work. When my clients return for the first time six months after the completion of their Ten Series, they generally look even better than they did at their last appointment.
Most post-ten work is completed in a series of three to five sessions. This advanced work helps clients reach new goals rather than just maintain what they got out of their Ten Series. However, many clients do come in for a single "tune-up" session once or twice a year.
Most post-ten work is completed in a series of three to five sessions. This advanced work helps clients reach new goals rather than just maintain what they got out of their Ten Series. However, many clients do come in for a single "tune-up" session once or twice a year.
