Customer Reviews

Rolfing and Physical Reality

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"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.

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.

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.

It's very interesting how in the early 1900, people had a great influence of Physics on body works. The vision of Dr. Rolf about gravity and struturaction made this book a master class in this themes. Excellent book and ideas!

This book appears to be tidbits and snippets of Ida P. Rolf's lectures. Each one really gives you an insight into not only the concept of Rolfing, but the concepts that were occurring in her mind when she was discovering and building the ideas and practices of Rolfing. An excellent book to use to investigate what it's all about.