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Connective Tissue
Rolfing works within the body’s endless web of connective tissue called fascia. Fascia is utterly ubiquitous. It unites similar cells into tissues, tissues into organs and organs into systems. It ties muscles to bone and links bones to each other. Muscles, organs, nerves and blood vessels are ensheathed and supported by this never ending “organ of support” that connects everything to everything else. Imagine that we could somehow remove everything form the body except the fascia. What would be left is a three dimensional liquid-crystal web in the exact shape of the human being.
A healthy and balanced fascial system is seen as being flexible and elastic; having the ability to lengthen while maintaining resilience. Injury, illness, emotional trauma, and everyday stress create imbalances within the system. These are often identified as a shortening, thickening, and dehydration of the tissue. This compensatory response of fascia eventually puts strain upon the very systems it is needed to support and protect. This is usually called to our attention as chronic pain, stiffness, and limited flexibility or range of motion
"The soul of man, with all the streams of pure living water, seems to dwell in the fascia of his body." - Andrew T. Still MD.
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