"Start at the outside and work in. Most manipulative therapies start at the inside, at what they say is the "cause". Maybe it is the cause, I don't care if it is. But I say you can't start there. You've got to start where you can unwind the trouble." Ida P. Rolf
Ida P. Rolf created the 10 Series as a way of describing the most efficient sequence for restructuring the human body. It is the fundamental framework from which Rolfing Structural Integration works to re-establish structural integrity in the body.
The 10-Series is like an inventory or fascial map of the whole body and initiates an organizing process that continues long after the work has been completed.
There are essentially three main components to the 10 Series Sequence, these are referred to as the sleeve, core, and integrative sessions.
Sessions 1-3
The first three sessions focus primarily on the surface aspect of the body, and work with the fascia and related anatomy that is nearer to the surface of the skin (called superficial fascia).
Sessions 4-7
The following four sessions of the 10 Series focus on the core aspect of the body and work on the deeper layers of fascia that relate to the organ structures and follow the mid-line of the body.
Sessions 8-10
The final three sessions focus on integrating the work and bringing all of the key relational segments of the body into balance.
In the final integration session the surface and deep layers of fascia are specifically balanced together. When the fascia of the whole body is balanced, the body’s inherent organization, alignment, and ease of movement within gravity will naturally express itself.