Structure, Function, Integration

The March 2021 issue (Volume 49, No. 1) of Structure, Function, Integration: Journal of the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute® focuses on theme of the head and the sensory organs housed within the head. Dr. Rolf called the head “the upper pole.” She wanted an upright ease in gravity, where support below let the head lift effortlessly toward the sky. Her work with the head was comprehensive: both external fascial structures and the legendary intraoral and intranasal work. Structural integration was the goal, but with the implicit understanding that something more – something evolutionary – was possible for humans as our heads truly began to crown our structures. Now in the technological age, the life of a person’s head is a story of screens, roads, and tasks; Rolfers write in this issue about how to soothe those hard-working eyes and live with ease above the neck. Our articles in this issue address the many ways Rolfing® Structural Integration and Rolf Movement® work address the head, eyes, nose, and mouth, as well as the senses of space. Ida Rolf’s classical Seventh-Hour work is discussed, especially how our understanding of the head has deepened over the decades, leading to new considerations for the upper-pole work. We also have authors considering our potential to impact the brain through manual therapy, either directly or indirectly, and the role of our work in helping clients recover from concussions. Basketball and football fans will enjoy our perspectives article featuring two Rolfers who add value to the performance of NBA and NFL athletes.