Frequently asked questions

Rolfing’s reputation for being painful came mostly from its earlier days when it was first becoming popular. Over the years, the Rolfing community has developed and discovered new ways of working gently with the body. I always put clients in charge of regulating the pressure and depth of the work; the session’s work may vary anywhere from deep to quite gentle. Most clients report the feel of Rolfing as very unique and satisfying form of bodywork. Sensations in the areas being worked often range from momentary discomfort to pleasurable warmth and release. Rolfing should never feel sharply painful or overwhelming.

Yes. Photos show the changes from Rolfing to be long lasting. Modifications to our alignment and usage patterns, such as sitting, standing, and walking, help the body maintain its new structure. The nature of Rolfing is to work with the body, not on it; this allows clients to take ownership of the body’s new structure. Movement exercises are given which continue to educate and improve alignment and functionality.

If you're unfamiliar with receiving bodywork ten sessions may sound like more time than is needed to work with the body, however each session works with different areas of the body and a unique set of goals. You will find that the ten sessions does not feel repetitive. Each session works to cumulatively build on the previous sessions, and establish support throughout the body. This helps to ensure that the changes are much longer lasting than "quick fix" therapies. For a thorough description of each session please see The Ten Sessions (will direct you to external website).

No. Rolfing works to effect change from the beginning of the first session, so depending on your goals and current level you may choose not to go through the whole ten sessions. Please bear in mind that the Rolfing ten series works to improve whole body functioning and awareness, and as such is not a 'quick-fix' treatment. Deep-seated structural and functional issues can therefore take a little while to resolve. Usually the first one to three sessions should give a good idea of how well it is working for you and how beneficial it will be to continue.

Those coming with very specific goals (such as pain problems, flexibility issues, etc...) may be more interested in having specific work done outside and unrelated to the ten series. The hands on techniques and movements of Rolfing can be very effective in this context, although strictly speaking this is not 'true' Rolfing. Please contact me if you are interested in this kind of work.

Because I need to see your posture before, during, and after the session, most clients, both men and women, go through the sessions in their regular underwear. Since it is important for you to feel comfortable in my office gym shorts and sports bras are also fine. If you absolutely prefer to remain more covered than this please bring lightweight flexible clothing and we will work through the fabric. Once you are on the table, you can have a sheet or blanket to cover up with if you wish.

Most people find once a week to be a beneficial and convenient time frame. However, others find that they respond better to the work if they have more time between sessions to settle in to the new patterns of their body and up to three weeks between sessions are fine in most cases.

Appointments typically last an hour. Initial session last for 90 minutes and include full consultation.

Currently, the initial session is £65, and £50 for follow up appointments. Reduced rates may be available based on circumstances. Please email me for further details. Payments can be made by cash or cheque.

I expect 24 hours notice if you are unable to make the appointment, or the full fee will be payable. If I have to cancel and give you less than 24 hours notice, we will arrange the treatment at a later date at no charge to yourself.

Please check the European Rolfing Association website at www.rolfing.org, where you will find me listed. If in doubt, please email the Rolf Institute to check.

The basic training consists of 78 days of full instruction divided into 3 phases, which may be taken in an intensive or modular format. Pre-trainings may be taken for preparation, and being accepted to train depends on submitting a successful entry paper. Trainings are offered worldwide and are due to begin in Britain in 2012. For a more detailed view of the training process please click here: ERA Rolfing Training.