The 10 Series

Rolfing by Formula (10 Session Series)

The 10-session Rolfing series, provided by Connie Karas, New-Orleans and Metairie based certified Rolfing® practitioner, is the most traditional and popular format used to balance the body and improve posture. This Rolfing series is the best approach for people new to the the Rolfing technique.

The Ten-Series can be divided into three distinct units:

Diagram of human body with colored sections indicating different muscle groups and areas for therapy or treatment.

Sessions 1-3

Referred to as the “sleeve” sessions, sessions one to three (1-3) strive to loosen and balance surface layers of connective tissue in the fascial system.

The first session is devoted to improving the quality of respiration with work on the arms, ribcage and diaphragm. Opening is also started along the upper leg, hamstrings, neck and spine. The second session helps give the body a stable foundation by balancing the foot and muscles of the lower leg. The third session typically involves a “side view” for an understanding of how the head, shoulder girdle, and hips are positionaly related to one another when standing under the influence of gravity. Then, the body is addressed within the context of this new vision.

Comparison of two human body diagrams highlighting different health risk areas. The left shows green and red zones indicating lower and higher risk, and the right features yellow, green, and red zones, indicating varying risk levels.

Sessions 4-7

Sessions four to seven (4-7) are considered the “core” sessions, examining the terrain found between the bottom of the pelvis and top of the head. The idea of core also includes the deep tissue of the legs for its role in support.

Session four begins this journey, its territory extending from the inside arch of the foot and up the leg, to the bottom of the pelvis.

The fifth session deals with balancing surface and deep abdominal muscles to the curve of the back.

Session six seeks to enlist more support and moment from the legs, pelvis and lower back, while the seventh session turns its sole attention to the neck and head.

A diagram of two human silhouettes showing different body regions. The left silhouette highlights the head in blue, the torso in green, and the legs in red. The right silhouette highlights the head in blue, the chest and upper back in green, the abdomen in yellow, and the legs in red.

Sessions 8-10

“Integration” is emphasized throughout the remaining three sessions, as sessions 8-10 provide an opportunity for the practitioner to blend previously established advancements, and ones yet to be made, into the body in a way that encourages smooth movement and natural coordination.

During sessions eight and nine, the practitioner is free to decide how best to achieve this integration, as the protocol is unique for each individual.

The tenth and final session is also one of integration, but more importantly, serves to inspire a sense of order and balance. Once completed, the wisdom of the Rolfing Ten Series will drive and support the body with health for years to come.

Graphics courtesy of Matt Hsu, Certified Rolfer™

Side view of a man in striped underwear showing before and after posture improvement.

Is the 10 Series Right for You?

The Rolfing® Ten-Series may appeal to you if you want to look beyond one isolated problem and explore how your entire body moves and supports itself.

It can be especially useful for people who:

  • Feel chronically tight or restricted

  • Notice recurring patterns of tension

  • Want to improve posture without forcing it

  • Feel uneven or imbalanced

  • Have movement compensations following old injuries

  • Want more mobility for sports or everyday activity

  • Are interested in greater body awareness

  • Want a more comprehensive approach than working on one area at a time

You don't need to know exactly what is causing your restriction before getting started. That is part of what the process helps explore. Contact Connie to book your appointment today!

Connie Karas Rolfing, Certified Structural Integration Practitioner

Schedule your appointment
Text/call: (504) 481-1267

Connie Karas is a Certified Rolfing® Structural Integration Practitioner based in Metairie and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.