ABOUT THE FOUNDER
Dr. Ida P Rolf was the founder of Structural Integration. In 1920 she earned her Ph.D. in biochemistry from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University. For twelve years she worked at the Rockefeller Institute in the Chemotherapy and Organic Chemistry departments. In the 1930’s, challenged by a friend’s disabilities and dissatisfied with the available medical treatment, Dr. Rolf explored Osteopathy, chiropractic medicine, Yoga, Alexander Technique, Homeopathic medicine and Korzbski’s work on the consciousness. By the 1940’s she had developed and experienced many breakthroughs with the work she did with chronically disabled persons unable to find help elsewhere. During her scientific research, she made a fundamental discovery about the body: the same network of connective tissue which contains and links the muscle system when healthy can be used to reshape it when it’s being pulled out of proper order. Dr. Rolf further refined her technique and developed a training program to ensure this important work would continue. There are two schools that conduct Dr. Rolf’s training -
The Guild for Structural Integration and the Rolf Institute. Both are involved in research to enhance the understanding of gravity’s relationship to the human structure. Graduates are required to have extensive knowledge in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, body awareness and mature sensitivity to psychological mediation.
