TOP QUESTIONS
If you still have questions, feel free to ask.
WHAT IS FASCIA?
There are many ways to describe fascia. The simple way is to think of yourself wearing a stretchy bodysuit that can get shortened, twisted, dried out and snagged in various places, whereby creating uncomfortable compensations and limitations anywhere in the structure. More simply, the slimy stuff you cut away when you're cooking a chicken breast (sorry vegans). The connective tissue, fascia is what holds us together, it covers each individual muscle, blood vessel, nerve, dives deep to form the septa in the muscles and even deeper to form the periosteum around the bones, and the coverings and suspension of the organs.
Some more formal definitions:
The term "connective tissue" refers to tissues that surround, protect, and support all of the other structure in the body. Connective tissue is the matrix that binds together the body's organs and systems, while at the same time providing compartmentalization between them. Fascia, a specific type of connective tissue, is a continuous sheath that provides structural support for the skeleton and soft tissues (muscles, tendons, etc.).
Click to read more from Pam's mentor John Latz at the Institute for Structural Integration
Fascia is the biological fabric that holds us together—the connective-tissue network. This collagenous network of gel and fiber is made up in part by an “extra-cellular matrix,” manufactured inside a connective-tissue cell and then extruded out into intercellular space. The fiber-gel matrix remains an immediate part of the environment of every cell, similar to how cellulose helps provide structure to plant cells. (Remember, we are more like a plant than a machine.)
Click to read the complete article by Tom Myers at Yoga Journal
"Fascia is a specialized system of the body that has an appearance similar to a spider's web or a sweater. Fascia is very densely woven, covering and interpenetrating every muscle, bone, nerve, artery and vein, as well as, all of our internal organs including the heart, lungs, brain and spinal cord. The most interesting aspect of the fascial system is that it is not just a system of separate coverings. It is actually one continuous structure that exists from head to toe without interruption. In this way you can begin to see that each part of the entire body is connected to every other part by the fascia, like the yarn in a sweater.
Trauma, inflammatory responses, and/or surgical procedures create Myofascial restrictions that can produce tensile pressures of approximately 2,000 pounds per square inch on pain sensitive structures that do not show up in many of the standard tests (x-rays, myelograms, CAT scans, electromyography, etc.) A high percentage of people suffering with pain and/or lack of motion may be having fascial problems, but are not diagnosed."
Click to read more from John F Barnes at Myofascial Release & Treatment Centers
IS STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION THE SAME AS ROLFING?
Structural Integration was created by Ida P Rolf, PhD.
In the early days, people nicknamed the work "Rolfing".
In 1979, the United States Patent and Trademark Office granted exclusive service mark rights for the term "ROLFING®" to The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration (“RISI”), distinguishing ROLFING® Structural Integration from all other forms of structural integration. RISI is the sole owner of the trademark "ROLFING®", the brand, and all its derivatives.
Structural Integration practitioners who train at the Institute for Structural Integration learn and practice the 10 session strategy the way Dr Rolf intended, with the added bonus of excellent career-extending body mechanics developed by John Latz.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION SESSSIONS?
Each session of Structural Integration has specific goals to be accomplished, so each session will probably look and feel differently. You may be in the same body positions, but the depth or purpose may vary. The work is done in 2 piece bathing suit or underwear. Also, refrain from using oil or lotion prior to the session. In order to contact the fascial layers, a technique of hooking is preferred, which greatly differs from the sliding, kneading feeling of massage with lubrication. The session should last between 75 - 90 minutes depending on how the session flows. The work is done within your comfort zone, with breath and intention always a part of the session. You will stand up at various times during the session to take "inventory" of what your are feeling and what changes may be occurring.
DO I HAVE TO COMPLETE THE WHOLE 10 SERIES?
Most people enthusiastically complete the 10 sessions. However, after 1 or 2 session you should be able to realize if this therapy isn't for you. Questions, comments, discussions are always welcomed and encouraged during your session to maintain focus, clarity and a good working relationship.
CAN I DO STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION IF I'M PREGNANT?
It is not recommended. Feel free to schedule a Deep Tissue Massage instead. A few months after giving birth, Structural Integration would be a helpful way to get your body back into alignment.
WHAT KIND OF LUBRICATION IS USED IN THE DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE?
Generally, organic jojoba is used; it is actually the wax of the plant and not and oil at all. For more specific issues, CBD Clinic analgesic massage oil may be used. Young Living or Revive essential oils may also be utilized as needed.