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Rolfing® Structural Integration

If you’ve tried stretching, massage, and “working on posture”… and the same pain keeps coming back, Rolfing® Structural Integration may be your missing piece.

Because sometimes the place that hurts, isn’t the problem. Rolfing looks at how your whole body is compensating, so you can get out of the loop of “it feels better for a week, then it’s back.” If you’re ready for a more strategic approach (not just temporary loosening), then consider Rolfing® Structural Integration.

The Benefits of Rolfing® SI: Why It Matters

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Rolfing® Structural Integration is structural bodywork plus guided awareness. So you can understand what your body is doing, why it keeps compensating, and how to find more support and balance over time.


We work with fascia (connective tissue), posture, and movement patterns, but the goal isn’t just change on the table. It’s helping you feel and move differently in real life.

We don’t just chase the sore spot. Tightness is often a compensation and your body doing extra work for something else. As we progress, you’ll build awareness of the patterns behind your symptoms (this takes time), and learn simple ways to support change day to day.

People often come to Rolfing SI for help with:

  • Recurring “same spot” pain patterns (back, hips, neck, shoulders)

  • Posture and alignment concerns

  • Feeling stiff, compressed, or asymmetrical

  • Recovery support for sports, training, or desk life

  • Tensional patterns that don’t fully resolve

 

What clients commonly notice over time:

  • Easier movement and better body awareness

  • Less bracing/guarding (and quicker recovery when stress hits)

  • A more supported, balanced feel in posture

  • Clearer understanding of what’s contributing, and what actually helps

Rolfing SI could be a good fit if you:

  • Prefer a structured approach rather than occasional, unplanned sessions

  • Are curious how posture + movement connect to pain

  • Are ready for deeper pattern work, not just temporary loosening

 

Rolfing SI may not be suitable for you if you:

  • Are seeking only relaxation massage

  • Prefer sessions focused on extensive use of lotion or oil and gliding strokes

  • Want a one-session “fix”​

Rolfing SI Durham NC

What To Expect

Before we start
We’ll do a quick check-in about what’s bringing you in, what you’ve tried, and what you want to feel different. I may also look at how you stand and move so we’re working with your whole pattern, not just the sore spot.

 

What to wear
To allow for effective work with the fascial layers, please wear minimal clothing.

Women:

  • Underwear

  • Two-piece bathing suit

  • Sports bra and shorts

 

Please avoid racerback or T-back bras as they cover the mid-back (mid-thoracic area) and limit access.

Men:

  • Briefs or boxers

  • Comfortable, form-fitting shorts

 

If any of this feels awkward, tell me. We’ll find an option that keeps you comfortable while still letting the work be effective.

What it feels like
Rolfing involves firm, intentional touch, but it isn’t meant to be painful. The work is collaborative; I’ll check in with you and adjust pressure so it stays within a productive, workable range. Many clients describe it as a deep, effective release.

Your role in the session
You’ll actively participate through breath and simple movements at times. This helps your nervous system notice the changes we’re making, so the work lasts beyond the session. And it helps you notice the habits that recreate your tension, so you can choose something different day to day.

Use of cream/lotion (and why it’s different than massage)
There is limited use of cream at times, especially when working with deeper fascial layers, so I can work with precision rather than glide over the tissue.

Real Results (From Clients)

"I started seeing Julie, at my massage therapist's (repeated!!) suggestion for Rolfing. It has made an incredible impact on my body!

 

I broke my ankle over 18 years ago and due to not ever having PT my ankle didn't flex much. After working with Julie I am able to achieve more flexion in the ankle and use my left leg better!

 

So much so my riding instructor was amazed at how I could now actually use my left leg effectively in my riding!"​

Google Review Missy F

Massage versus Rolfing SI

Massage vs Rolfing®: What’s the difference?

Both can help with pain and tension, but the goal is different.

Massage & Stretch Therapy is excellent for:

  • Muscle recovery, stress relief, and targeted pain relief

  • Regular maintenance and mobility support

  • “I want to feel better this week” sessions

 

Rolfing SI is great for:

  • Longer-term structural change and body awareness

  • Posture and movement patterns that keep recreating pain

  • “I feel stuck” or "My massage results don't last".

 

Not sure what to book?


Start with Massage & Stretch for relief + mobility now. Choose Rolfing if you’re ready for deeper structural work.

Sauna and Cold Plunge Contrast Therapy

Pair Rolfing with Recovery Room (Sauna + Cold Plunge)

Want to support your body more during Rolfing? Recovery helps.

Great pairings:

Ready to Book?

If you’re in Durham / the Triangle and want a more strategic approach to persistent tension and structural patterns, book your Rolfing SI session online.

Julie Marciniak
Certified Advanced Rolfer®

Full Session — $185

 

Read: The Benefits of Rolfing® SI for Chronic Pain & Structural Issues

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