FAQS
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I’ve heard Structural Integration is painful. Is it?We’re often addressing patterns that have been developing throughout your life. In order to bring balance and harmony to a tissue pattern that’s been stuck for many years, a certain depth and intensity is needed. The pressure used is typically quite firm and deep, but it will never be more than your body can handle. You are always in control, and you can always ask for less (or more) pressure. Part of the process is re-experiencing trapped tension held in the connective tissue. People will often say, “That feels intense and good at the same time. My body needed that.”
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How many sessions are needed?Traditionally, Structural Integration has been performed over the course of a ten-session series. This works best, as the series is viewed as a process toward improving your health. Because the fascia is continuous from head to toe, tension in one area of the body can impact other areas. The Ten Series works the entire structure in a systematic way to achieve lasting results, from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. Each session builds on the last, using manual manipulation to reorganize the fascia and educating clients about movement. The goal is to see the big picture, not missing the forest for the trees. I encouraged clients to repeat the entire Ten Series process five to seven times. As we repeat the process, the format changes. Sessions become more sophisticated, to introduce more complexity into your system. The increased complexity teaches and challenges the body and leads to greater transformation. Typically more work is done while sitting and standing, and occasional work is performed in certain yoga asanas.
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Can I schedule individual sessions instead of committing to the Ten Series?While a full Ten Series is the best way to produce long-lasting results, clients also benefit from fewer sessions if they’re unable to commit to a full series. Individual sessions can be tailored to your needs, and I can develop a treatment plan for your unique circumstances.
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Do you recommend ongoing maintenance?After completing the Ten Series, I recommend monthly maintenance sessions. I also advise clients to maintain a personal movement practice comprised of stretching and mobility work, cardio, and strength training.
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What can I expect at my first session?Sessions last 90 minutes. We’ll begin by talking about your goals and assessing your posture and movement. Postural analysis is typically performed before, during and after the session. During the session you will participate through movement, breathing, and focusing internal awareness. You may feel ongoing shifts in balance and awareness occurring between your sessions. It is not uncommon for clients to experience changes in their emotional lives; as tension is released, the body may clear long-held emotions. This leads to an improved sense of wellbeing.
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What should I wear?During a session, I’ll use my hands to work on your body, and you will also be asked to stand up and walk around. To allow ease of motion, most clients wear underwear for Structural Integration sessions. You can also wear cotton gym shorts and a sports bra or a bathing suit (two piece for women), if you’re more comfortable.
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What is your cancelation policy?I understand that life is unpredictable, but I also must manage my own busy schedule. Please notify of any cancelations 24 hours in advance. You will be charged for your session if you cancel or reschedule your appointment without proper notice.
Feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions.
These organizations can help you learn more about Structural Integration and the work that I do:
Anatomy Trains is the system of Structural Integration developed by Tom Myers, with whom I studied.
The Guild for Structural Integration is an association of Structural Integration practitioners who are dedicated to preserving Dr. Ida Rolf’s teaching and work.
The International Association of Structural Integrators is the professional membership organization for Structural Integration.
The Milne Institute teaches Visionary Craniosacral Work developed by Hugh Milne with, whom I studied.
SIconnect.us is a place to find the voices of the Structural Integration profession, featuring audio recordings of different generations of practitioners, from traditionalists to pioneers.