Rolfing – The Posture of Motherhood
It all begins with a positive pregnancy test which brings sheer joy and delight. Then the body begins a 10 month marathon of building and supporting this new, precious life.
The emotional and physical demands of nurturing a new life takes its toll on the mothers body. This can often be attributed to a shortening from ribs to pelvis which is literally pulled down by the weight of the bump.
This shortening is compounded in the post natal period by holding, feeding and carrying. The mothers body feels heavy and tired and shoulder, neck and lower back pain are common.
The posture of motherhood can need a little support in unwinding. Rolfing can help as it works gently to create length and ease where muscles have shortened. In effect helping to give you your body back.
WHAT IS ROLFING?
Rolfing is a treatment process developed in the middle of the 20th century by a Ida Pauline Rolf.
Often described as a cross between physiotherapy and massage, the focus is on the clients posture, working on the connective tissue to relieve joint issues throughout the body. The goal is always to create greater ease through the body.
Rolfing is about returning your body to its optimum structure, via the realignment of the inter connective tissues (or myofascial layer) that hold the muscles in place. It is usually done in a series – taking the form of a number of one-on-one sessions that follow a specific plan, moving through different body parts and muscle groups with methodical rigour.
WHAT HAPPENS ON MY FIRST VISIT?
I will review your medical history and answer any questions you may have. I will then watch you stand and walk, so I can see how you move and how you support yourself.
Your session will be customized based on my observations. You will then lie down on a comfortable table and I will give you a blanket or a hot pack if you get chilled easily. I will work at a level where the intensity does not surpass your ability to relax and keep breathing. Sometimes I will ask you to do a slow, gentle movement, like reaching your arm above your head, to help reprogram the movement patterns as I work.
At the end of the session, you may feel lighter, or more grounded or simply more comfortable. You’ll walk again at the end of the session, a chance for you to feel the changes and let me know how you feel. This will also help me visually evaluate your progress.
To book a consultation with Caitriona or any of our clinics therapists please call 01 677 9859 or email info@the-elbowroom.com.