Hellerwork
Hellerwork
is in a class of bodywork known as Structural Integration.
Originally developed by Dr.
Ida Rolf, Structural Integration strives for optimal alignment,
achieved by adjusting the body’s relationship with
gravity. This is done through a Series of sessions progressing
from
the superficial to deeper structure. Hellerwork is an integrating
process combining traditional structural bodywork with
movement education and dialogue. As such it reflects a
holistic approach to health and well-being. A primary goal
is to reach
a greater awareness of our bodies, becoming increasingly
free of patterns that lock us into chronic tensions and
stress. By learning to use our bodies more consciously
and more efficiently,
we can awaken a sense of joy in our bodies. Relaxation,
increased energy, reduced pain etc. are all possible effects
of a healthier
alignment.
 People
from varied backgrounds benefit from Hellerwork. Computer
users and bus drivers, for example, find relief
from tensions
accumulated in their work. Athletes, dancers and martial
arts practitioners learn a new awareness, enabling them
to use their
bodies more effectively. People in counseling for emotional
issues often find a complementary release in the “tissue
memory.” Hellerwork is effective in aiding recovery
from injuries and surgeries. And still others fulfill
a more generalized
desire for optimal health. Through increased understanding
of themselves, clients become empowered to live their
lives more fully and proactively.
What
Happens in a Session?
Recognizing
and engaging the interrelationship of body and mind, each
Hellerwork session includes the three
basic components:
* Deep
tissue bodywork (also referred to as myofascial release)
Hands-on
manipulation and release of myofascial restrictions and
tensions which have accumulated
in your body
(An explanation of myofascial release follows
in the paragraph titled “How Does it Work?”)
* Movement education
Increasing awareness of your own patterns in
activities of daily life such as walking, standing
and sitting,
and experiencing
new patterns to assist in continuing realignment
of your body
Applying these new patterns in advanced sessions
to more complex activities such as a golf swing
or playing
a
musical instrument.
* Dialogue
Helping to recognize emotional or attitudinal
patterns creating tension in your body, and
moving towards
the discovery of new
ways to deal with stress in your life
The Movement Education and Dialogue extend
the work done in the bodywork into your life.
How
Does It Work?
Hellerwork focuses on the matrix of connective
tissue known as fascia. In a well balanced
body, fascia
is loose and
moist, but under continual stress, overuse,
or lack of movement
it becomes dry, stiff and rigid. Layers glue
together, creating what we recognize as "knots" in
our muscles. Through hands-on manipulation,
practitioners stretch
and release
this gluing and increase blood flow to an
area, thereby restoring fluidity to the tissue.
Sessions
can be
quite sculptural,
reshaping
the body to function in integrity with gravity.
Often the bodywork is felt as a reminder
to the tissue
of a familiar
state of
ease, and the client is better able to incorporate
that into postural patterns.
Clients
Often Experience :
* Improved posture, alignment
* Greater flexibility & ease of movement
* Increased energy & vitality
* Enhanced body awareness
* Reduced tension, aches & pains |
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Click
here to learn more about the Hellerwork Series and more about this holistic approach to realignment
of
the entire body, and on the Area Specific Therapy heading
for a description of sessions designed to address a
specific current issue. The particular treatment approach
is designed for each
client’s specific needs.
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