The Basic Ten Series aims to systematically address the body from the most superficial fascial layers to the deepest layers. Throughout the sessions, the structure (alignment) and function (movement) of the body are mindfully addressed to create more balance within each individual’s unique structure. Kate’s background in somatic and yoga therapies lend a unique and gentle perspective when working with the functional patterns within the body. Each Rolfing session builds on the previous one to create more support and adaptability within the body, while simultaneously preparing the body for upcoming sessions. While each session has an anatomical focus, Kate holds in mind what is currently happening for the client, their overarching goal, and together we gently work to increase the client’s adaptability and maximize the potential within the entire system. This client-centered perspective brings the whole human towards integration. This is an engaging process where the client has the opportunity to learn about how their body functions and how to maintain this new and improved form. The changes experienced during the 10 Series can be lasting and profound.
The Sessions
Sessions 1-3: Where am I?
The Sleeve Sessions
Session 1: Functional Breath
The goal of the first session is to increase ease and quality of the breath through work on the rib basket and shoulders. We also begin opening of the hips and upper legs.
Session 2: Support from the Feet
The goal of the second session is to create a foundation for the body by addressing the feet, lower legs, and knees. This also begins opening the backline of the body.
Session 3: Balance Front and Back
The goal of the third session is to establish the front and back of the body by working the lateral (side) lines. This helps build an understanding of how the head, shoulders, and pelvis are positioned and, move in relation to one other.
Sessions 4-7: Who am I?
The Core Sessions
Session 4: Adaptable Pelvis
The goal of the fourth session is to begin establishing a mid-line by working the inside arch of the foot, up the inner line of the leg, and up to the bottom of the pelvis. We also aim to increase the adaptability of the pelvic floor in this session.
Session 5: Organization of the Core
The goal of the fifth session is to bring more balance and adaptability to the structures within the abdomen and lower torso, including the psoas muscles.
Session 6: Organization of the Back
The goal of session six is to bring support, length and, mobility to the back of the body, with special attention paid to the sacrum and its relationship to the entire structure.
Session 7: Balance of the Head over the Body
The goal of session seven is to relate the head to the body with work on the shoulders, neck, jaw, and head.
Sessions 8-10: Where am I going?
The Integrations Sessions
Sessions 8 & 9: Functional Girdles
These two sessions are unique to each client and focus on either the upper or lower body. If the upper body, the hands, wrists, arms and shoulders are addressed. If the lower body, the feet, ankles, legs, and pelvis are addressed. The overall goal of these two sessions are to ensure nuanced movement, and adaptability, throughout the entire system.
Session 10: Integration
Session ten brings closure to the series by taking a whole-body approach to set the work we have done throughout the previous nine sessions. We address the joints and surrounding tissues, in an effort to create more horizontal relationships and congruence throughout the entire system.
Over the course of the Basic Ten Series, the client will have gained new postural patterns and movement options, in conjunction with easy-to-use tools they rely on as they move forward in creating vitality and well-being in their lives.
After the Ten Series
Dr. Rolf recommended the client take a break from regular Rolfing Structural Integration sessions after completing the Basic Ten Series. This allows the client to fully integrate the changes, live in and discover the new possibilities within their body. Unless a client gets injured or wants to explore more SATYA to support their results in a gentle way, I recommend waiting at least several weeks to several months after completing a Ten Series, before receiving post-ten work. When clients return after several months after the completion of their Ten Series, they most often look better than they did at their last appointment.