History of Rolfing

History of Rolfing

In 1920, Ida Pauline Rolf received her Ph.D. in biochemistry from the
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, followed by
an appointment as a Fellow in organic chemistry at the Rockefeller
Institute. Driven to find solutions to her own health problems and those of
her children, she spent many years studying and experimenting with
different systems of healing and manipulation. She concluded that lasting
improvement in well-being required a closer look at the effects of gravity
on our bodies. Her insight was that gravity stressed the imbalances in
structure, changes in the network of connective tissues, robbed the body
of energy and good physiological function – and these changes could be
reversed.
She devoted her life to developing powerful and effective techniques to
bring about a more harmonious relationship with gravity. Her investigation
led to the system that we now call Rolfing. In order to pass along her work
to others, she developed a series of ten sessions, which are the basis for
every Rolfer’s training and practice.
Dr. Rolf continues to be recognized as a pioneer and leader in the field of
bodywork, soft tissue manipulation and movement education. She founded
the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration in 1971 in Boulder, CO. Since her
death in 1979 at the age of 83, the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration
has continued to share her work by certifying Rolfers and Rolf Movement
Practitioners, supporting research, and building upon her inspiration.
Today, there are more than 1,350 Rolfers and Rolf Movement
Practitioners in practice worldwide.(Photo and text courtesy of The
Rolf Institute® of Structural Integration).