Rolfing and Physical Reality [Paperback]

Ida P. Rolf Ph.D. (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 1, 1990

A warm and wise self-portrait of the woman who originated the therapy that bears her name. Here, Ida Rolf tells about her life, about the wonder of the human body, about life in general, and about Rolfing in particular, explaining her technique of manipulating muscle tissue to allow the body to come into its correct alignment. 

After Rolfing, your body has been encouraged to do what it wants to do--you move with ease, your lungs take in more air, and you are taller (and therefore, slimmer). 

Editorial Reviews

Review

". . . a perceptive and affectionate introduction to Ida Rolf and her therapeutic system. One is treated to selections from Rolf's intuitive, intelligent, and humorous commentaries on the background, philosophy, and technique of Rolfing."
(Library Journal? )

About the Author

Ida P. Rolf received her Ph.D. in biochemistry and physiology from Columbia University in 1920, and subsequently worked at the Rockefeller Institute in chemotherapy and organic chemistry.  She is the founder of the Rolf Institute in Boulder, Colorado. 

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Healing Arts Press (November 1, 1990)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0892813806
• ISBN-13: 978-0892813803
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #152,409 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

29 of 29 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars It's All About the Attitude, June 15, 2001

By 

rareoopdvds (San Diego, CA United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Rolfing and Physical Reality (Paperback)

"If there is one thing a Rolfer must remember," says Ida Rolf, "is to keep in mind that Rolfing is based on the theory of gravity." This is essentially the underpinnings of the attitude the Rolfer should consider when approaching a potential client. This book which is an amalgam of the wit and witticisms of Ida Rolf more or less defines the attitude of the Rolfer, the mind-set in which one is to take as a form of preparation. Rolfing is not a therapy, nor is it out to cure any ailments, disease or otherwise - it is aimed at elevating ones health for maximum mobility. The body is desgined to move, however, there are obstrctions that we are not always entirely aware of. Although gravity is constantly at play with us every day, we do not take into account the effects of gravity on the body. In Ida's understanding, gravity means structure, which also means relationships. Not just relation of the muscles to eachother and to the bones, but the body to the earth, the body with gravity. What is that relationship? The feet has to move along with with earth, to feel the ground, rather than resist or flatten as if it were a land mover itself. Gravity can be worked 'with' rather than against, which is the whole intention of Rolfing. This book is an easy read, however, because it is thought provoking to the person who is interested in Rolfing, you may want to enjoy some of Ida's brilliance and knowledge in her work. 'Rolfing and Physical Reality' is a good companion to her major work 'Rolfing' which explains the anatomical aspects of the body that has been shifted and unset. While the latter works as a presentation for the appreciation and observations for the Rolfer, this book acts as the thread for the Rolfers mind. I reccomend one with the other and should be read in tandem.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Get to know Ida Rolf, October 22, 2009

By 

Lynne S (Central California USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Rolfing and Physical Reality (Paperback)

After two back surgeries, I made the decision to go to a Rolfing practitioner for help with healing. I became interested in finding out more about Dr. Rolf's philosophy and purchased this book. I really enjoyed the book. It's easy to read and is in her own words so you really get to know her and her committment to structural integration. This book doesn't get into the details of how to Rolf so if you are looking for that information, one of her other books would be more helpful. After reading the book, I found that I was even more committed to going through the 10 sessions. Dr. Rolf was truly ahead of her time.

23 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars FOR A GREATER UNDERSTANDING, May 11, 2000

By 

G. Tenerelli "Gina" (SEATTLE, WASHINGTON) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Rolfing and Physical Reality (Paperback)

THIS IS A WONDERFUL BOOK - I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN. I'M CURRENTLY READING IT FOR THE SECOND TIME. IT'S A VERY QUICK READ. THIS BOOK IS GREAT FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO WANT A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF ROLFING - OR ARE EVEN CURIOS ABOUT IDA HERSELF. IT SEEMS AS THOUGH IDA ROLF'S PERSONALITY REALLY SHINES THROUGH IN THIS BOOK. I FOUND IT TO BE VERY "LIGHT" AND "FUN" TO READ - AND ALSO VERY ENLIGHTENING.