The Role of Connective Tissue As the “Band” and Refers to the Sheets of Fibrous Tissue Under the Skin and Throughout the Physical Medium for the Conduction Body.2 (P

CHINESE MEDICINE

nective tissue (called connective tissue proper above). Fascia and connective tissue have become synonymous terms and are often used interchangeably, although by definition, fascia is only a part of the larger system. Fascia is a Latin word meaning The Role of Connective Tissue as the “band” and refers to the sheets of fibrous tissue under the skin and throughout the Physical Medium for the Conduction body.2 (p. 111) The other types of connective tissue, bone and cartilage, are not sheets, of Healing Energy in Acupuncture but they are covered by fascia. All of the body structures are united and supported ® and Rolfing by the fascial components. Each of the individual muscles is infused with intramus- by Dick Larson, Ph.D., L.Ac., Certified Advanced Rolfer cular connective tissue and surrounded with fascia; this fascia then connects with the fascial network which is continuous throughout the body. A complete function- This article was originally published in the sic physical components. One of the most ing unit is formed, the myofascial system.5 American Journal of Acupuncture, vol. 18, prevalent and influential elements in the no. 3, 1990. Copyright American Journal of body is connective tissue. All the systems This interconnectiveness extends to the cel- Acupuncture, 1990; Reprinted with permis- of the body – circulatory, nervous, diges- lular level. One researcher notes: “Cellular sion. tive, and musculoskeletal – are ensheathed biologists have discovered that each cell in in connective tissue. In fact, this intercellu- the body has its own myofascial system, lar medium encompasses literally every cell consisting of a somewhat stiffened skeleton ABSTRACT in the body.1 made of tubules interconnected with a fibrous ground substance, some parts of This paper is an exploration of the new Connective tissue is made up of cells which which are contractile.”6 understanding of the primary role that con- specialize in forming the various substances nective tissue (the body’s myofascial sys- that hold the body structure together.2 Con- An overview of fascia reveals the enormity tem) plays in the distribution of Qi through- nective tissue exists in many forms, with and pervasiveness of the tissue. Besides the out the body and the acupuncture merid- the particular intercellular substance deter- extensive sheaths and folds around and ians. Connective tissue is reviewed. mining its individual traits. This intercel- between the organs, there is an immense Acupuncture’s relationship to connective lular substance is known as ground sub- quantity of tissue which encircles all living tissue is discussed, first as shown in ancient stance. cells and also every fluid which fills the joint acupuncture texts; then modern scientific cavities and serous spaces. If all other tis- findings on the role the tissues play in Qi Ground substance is the matrix in which sues were removed from the body, the re- movement are presented. Next is an intro- the cells and fibers of connective tissue, as maining fascia alone would be enough to duction to Rolfing, a therapeutic form of well as all other cells of the body, are continue to present a normal contour: the 1(p. 3) connective tissue manipulation. Both theo- embedded. This permits the ground outer appearance of the body would not retical and scientific aspects of Rolfing are substance to stabilize the spatial and func- have changed.4 (p. 66), 7 explored, as well as Rolfing’s relationship tional relationships of the cells and fibers. Fascial tissue, because it is so intimately to acupuncture. The final discussion pro- Therefore, ground substance is sometimes involved with the more specialized tissues poses a new understanding of the body and referred to as “intercellular cement,” since 2 (p. 80) of the body such as the organs, must natu- suggests new possibilities of diagnosis, it helps hold the cells together. rally possess a broad ability to adapt physi- treatment, and potential research. The ground substance, made up of a vari- ologically. The internal environment re- Acupuncture, in existence for thousands of ety of components, varies in composition quires fascia to maintain a level of plastic- years, is a whole and complete modality and viscosity from tissue to tissue. For ex- ity to match the constantly changing meta- used to describe and therapeutically inter- ample, in loose, ordinary connective tissue bolic circumstances. Thus, the broad vene in the human energetic system. The the ground substance is a soft, viscous gel. adaptivity and plasticity of fascia offers an 3 more we can understand the mechanics of By contrast, the matrix of bone is very hard. excellent environment in which other more acupuncture within the structure of our “Three types of connective tissue are gen- specialized tissues such as the organs may knowledge in the West, the more we can erally recognized: connective tissue proper, thrive and function.4 (p. 66) use the therapy and contribute to it. One of having mixed fibers imbedded in a more Fascia is divided into two differing layers the most puzzling questions about acu- or less fluid or gel-like matrix; cartilage, the in the body. Superficial fascia lies just un- puncture concerns the process through fibers of which are enmeshed in a some- der the skin, in the form of thin, yet strong, which the Qi travels throughout the body/ what plastic ground substance; and bone, elastic sheets which serve as both a con- energy field. in which the matrix is infiltrated with inor- ganic salts.”4 tainer and as a support for the whole To understand the movement of Qi, and the body.8(p. 38) The well-being of the body is de- body in general, one must examine the ba- The focus of this paper is the myofascial con- pendent upon the tone of this tissue, which

24 www.rolf.org STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION / SUMMER •AUGUST 2003 CHINESE MEDICINE

can be affected in a variety of ways. The cine.”4 (p. 66) The reality is that all forms of of blood vessels. The earlier Ling Shu in the physical trauma of an accident or the re- healing – acupuncture, allopathic medicine, Huang Di Nei Jing (circa 100-300 BC, writ- percussions of surgery both have wide chiropractic, osteopathy, surgery, bodywork ten perhaps as early as the late Zhou dy- ranging effects; fascial tissue becomes and more – are mediated through the con- nasty) offered discussions of the lengths denser and shorter as it goes through the nective tissues when healing the body. and capacities of various organs.10(pp. 133-134) healing process. This is again due to fascia’s In studying classical texts such as the Han effort to support; when an area is injured Shu and the Ling Shu, we find the Chinese or damaged, the shortening and thickening ACUPUNCTURE observed and commented on the anatomi- makes the area more stable and less prone The connective tissue is a semiconducting cal structures of the body and their relation- to disruption as the healing proceeds. Since communication network that can convey ship to the functioning of Oriental Medi- the fascia connects and communicates to all bioelectric signals between every part of the cine. These classical references point to the parts of the body, these compacted areas body and every other part. This fascial com- fascial system; the “fat, greasy tissues” of will convey the strain in numerous direc- munication network comprises the merid- the human body. These structures were actions and produce a response at remote ian system of traditional Oriental Medicine, knowledged, were understood, and were points. According to Dr. Ida Rolf: with its countless extensions into every viewed as an important component in the functioning of the body.10(p. 133) “This is probably the mechanism through nook and cranny of the organism. The elu- which reflex or pressure points become sive Ch’i [Qi] in its various forms, the source manifest. Here, congestion or malfunction of energy and information for all parts of SOURCE THEORY of an internal organ will be felt as a limited the organism, is revealed to consist, at least spot of pain, sometimes quite intense un- in part, of bioelectric, biomagnetic, biome- Beginnings were always significant to the der surface pressure at a point very distant chanical. and bioacoustic signals moving theorists of Chinese medicine; the origin from its origin. For example, many women through collagen fibers. ground substance, indicated both form and function, referring at certain times in the menstrual cycle re- and associated layers of water to the body or the universe. Therefore, 9(pp. 12,14-17) port pain elicited by pressure on a circular molecules. source theory holds an especially important place in Chinese medical theory.10 (p. 97) area (perhaps an inch in diameter) at the Study regarding how the acupuncture sys- very crown of the head. In other words, the tem occurs and operates in the body has The Ling Shu in the Huang Di Nei Jing was uterine congestion of the menses sets up been ongoing for thousands of years. The one of the first books to discuss the ener- strain as far away as the top of the head. ancient Chinese were less concerned about getic source within the body. The Ling Shu “Many people are aware that reflex points how acupuncture worked and more curi- theory of the Triple Warmer is the ground- can be found on the sole of the foot. When ous about what acupuncture did and in work for part of the Nan Jing source theory. 10 (p. 97) individual visceral organs become con- what way it could be used most efficiently. “In both the Ling Shu and Nan Jing, the Triple Warmer is described as a source gested, pressure on a specific point in the Today, however, there is great emphasis on of the meridian system.”10 (p. 99) sole elicits pain, sometimes intense in qual- acquiring a logical understanding of every- ity. This happens in both chronic and acute thing. Acupuncture has generated great In developing this connection, the Ling Shu congestions. In such reflex situations, fas- controversy due to the lack of a cohesive describes the relationships of certain tissue cial planes may be the route of mechanical “Western” framework within which we can and organs to a series of source points. It transmission.”8(p. 39) comprehend its workings. Modern medi- says: cal science has halfheartedly explored the The deep fascia is denser than the superfi- “The five Yin organs have six (correspond- possibility of acupuncture, but generally cial fascia. Deep fascia consists of a series ing) Yang organs. The six Yang organs have disallows the concept of meridian path- of continuous planes and bands, reaching twelve sources (points). The twelve sources 1 ways. from the skin down to the bone. (p. 15) (points) come out at the four joints (wrists Where movement is necessary, around Nonetheless the answer may have been and ankles). The four joints control and treat joints for example, the tissue loosens. Where available to us all along. Connective tissue the five Yin organs. greater strength is called for, the tissues is able to completely interconnect all parts “If the five Yin organs have disease, treat become thicker and denser with a more of the body, from the largest down to the the twelve source (points). The twelve parallel arrangement of the fibrous struc- microscopic; it is within every tissue and sources can give Qi and taste (nourishment) ture. Deep fascia and muscle have become cell; and it is even within the organelles in- to the three hundred and sixty five nodes synonymous for most people because it is side each cell. That connective tissue gen- (acupoints), because of the five Yin organs. difficult to separate the deep fascia from the erates and conducts energy is highly sig- 8(p. 42) When the five Yin organs are sick, they re- muscles they surround. nificant for Oriental medical theory and spond and come out (reflect) to the twelve practice.10(p. 159) Connective tissue, then, is both a part of source (points). The twelve sources each normal everyday functioning (homeosta- It is popular fallacy that the early Chinese have places where they come out. (If one) sis), as well as voluntary actions. In sum- had little or no anatomical knowledge. clearly understands the sources and ob- ming up the unique role connective tissue From the Han Shu, written during the Han serves their responses, one is able to know plays in the body, Snyder says: “the con- dynasty, we learn that Prince Mang ordered the extent of the damage to the five Yin or- nective tissues not only bind the various physicians and butchers to perform surgery gans.” parts of the body, but, in a broader sense on live political prisoners to measure their The Shao Yin of the Yang is the lungs, the connect the numerous branches of medi- organs and to establish the source and route

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION / SUMMER •AUGUST 2003 www.rolf.org 25 CHINESE MEDICINE source comes out al LU-9 (Taiyuan) at both their component tissues, the connective tis- branes of the body. With this understand- the left and right sides. The Tai Yang of the sues, enabling the communication of every ing we may connect energetic concepts of Yang is the Heart, the source comes out at single cell to all other cells. These tissues source and meridians with interior mem- PC-7 (Daling) at both the left and right are a vast reservoir for the body and meet branes such as the Gao and Huang, which sides. The Tai Yin of the Yin is the Kidneys, the requirements of any structure or ener- are part of the body’s fascial system.10 (p. 107) the source comes out at K-3 (Taixi) at both getic entity that would be capable of the Matsumoto and Birch speculate: “Perhaps the left and right sides. The Shao Yang of mediation and transference of energy re- The fascia, the tissues that cover and line the Yin is the Liver. The source comes out quired of a “source.”10 (p. 101) the body and line the body and organs, have at LV-3 (Taichong) at both the left and right some special qualities, properties, or func- What seems to have happened is that much sides. The Jue Yin of the Yin is the Spleen, tions that were recognized by the medical of Oriental medicine today, often based on the source comes out at SP-3 (Taibai) at both authors of the Han dynasty.”10 (p. 107) modern Chinese herbal texts,10 (p. 139),15 often the left and right sides. The source of Gao neglects the anatomical descriptions from Traditionally, the description of each of the comes out at CV-15 (Jiuwei), only one point. the older texts. Functional aspects of the twelve meridians includes an internal path- The source of Huang comes out at Po Ang, organs are typically emphasized, and there way which “belongs to” or “permeates” its only one point. is apparent disregard for the more physical own organ and “spirally wraps” its paired “These twelve source (points) control and details. (For example, one learns that the organ.10 (p. 141) Luo is the translated character treat diseases of The five Yin and six Yang Liver spreads the Qi, but does not learn the for “spirally wrapped.”14 organs.”10 (p. 99) mechanism through which this occurs.) Luo can be translated in various ways ac- Thus, a concept such as “no form” is trans- The ideas concerning Gao, Huang, and Po cording to context. For example, there are lated and considered to be the same as Ang provide the information relevant to the Luo Mai, or Luo vessels, which are usu- “having no physical material.” This care- this discussion. Matsumoto and Birch10 (p. 100) ally understood as the Luo meridians (or lessness leads to ideas such as The Triple point out that Gao and Huang are typically blood vessels). On the other hand, when Warmer being a completely functional en- understood to indicate fatty tissues. Huang described as Jing Luo, Luo indicates a spe- tity with no basis on a physical level. Un- also is thought to mean the “space below cific group of vertical and horizontal me- der these circumstances thorough under- the heart and above the diaphragm”11 and ridians which pass through the body. Luo standing of acupuncture in today’s world suggests a “missing” or “hidden” organ. is also used in the context of the Luo Xue, is not forthcoming. Matsumoto and Birch Gao pertains to “the extensions of the peri- or Luo points (each meridian connects di- ask: toneal membranes that encapsulate each of rectly to its paired meridian by way of the the Yin and Yang organs,” while Huang is What, for example. can be the importance Luo point). Finally, there is the Luo wrap- recognized as “the fascia, mesenterium, and of an energetic medicine if there is no ground ping of paired organs by a specific, paired omenta that connect the various organs to substance for its energetic connections? meridian. In these varied examples, the Luo one another.”12 Why should anyone accept a non-substan- is an energetic route referring to fascial or tive organ, with functions that are only sets connective tissue membranes.10 (p. 141) The two characters Po and Ang each indi- of observed events, as anything more than cate the umbilicus, now as well as in classi- In the Ling Shu(17: 190) it is said: a biological misgrouping that would best cal times.13 Therefore, Matsumoto and be reassigned to metabolism or hormonal “The Jing Mai (meridian) is Li (the lining). Birch10 (p. 100) affirm the umbilicus as the stimulants? How would needling Triple The horizontal branch of the meridian is the source of Huang. Etymologically the char- Warmer points affect anything?10 (p. 139) Luo. The divergent branches are the grand- acter Po comes from a pictogram of a baby child Luo.”10 (p. 141) in the womb.14 Gao is also seen as connected to the process of fetal development.10 (p. 100) MERIDIANS Here the Luo are stated to be horizontal Matsumoto and Birch comment: branches of the meridians, and from them Connective tissue has been recognized as come the lesser branches, called the “grand- Since Gao and Huang both commonly re- an integral component of the meridian sys- child Luo.” The image is analogous to the fer to fatty, greasy membranes or tissues, tem as a whole. Early Chinese medical branching of the blood system, with the and Gao is particularly related to fetal tis- thinkers did not view the body as an empty blood passing from arteries to the arterioles sue, we feel that in the context of source energetic sphere. They spoke instead of a and down to the capillaries. However, the theory these characters refer to the mem- “lining” of the body and the organs, called most important idea presented here when branes and peritoneal tissues (mostly com- the Li. Nowadays, this is typically trans- discussing the Luo and the grandchild Luo posed of connective tissues), the physical lated as “inside” or “internal,” such as in is the reference to Li, the lining.10 (p. 141) substrate of the Hara. This interpretation is the “internal - external” duality of the eight not so mundane as it first appears. principle school of thought.10 (p. 107) Thus, it During the Han dynasty when Li referred to the lining of the body, it was usually con- A very large part of the body consists of is an abstract description, showing a differ- sidered the opposite of Biao, surface. Be- connective tissues and membranes func- ence of location from the “outside.” In the cause Biao, the surface, is typically used to tioning in such a way as to hold the body, Han dynasty, however, Li was used to in- 13,14 indicate the skin and body hair, the lining as a whole, together. These structures con- dicate an actual physical lining. is that which covers and lines the body, but nect every part of the body to every other To translate Li as “lining” and not as “inte- not the skin itself. As Matsumoto and Birch part, at a gross anatomical level through the rior” gives a wholly different meaning. The point out, this distinction indicates the Chi- fascial planes, and microscopically through idea of lining can correspond to the mem- nese understood the superficial fascia of the

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body. Others agree with this position: for lated to their capacity to conduct protons, surrounding tissues.6 (pp. 11, 13) example, while discussing the Yin and Yang electrons, and possibly other energetic sub- An example of connective tissue’s conduc- Wei Mai, Xie Lin16 of the Qing dynasty atomic entities. tivity comes from the studies of acupunc- wrote: “It is the flow of this energy that provides turist Dr. Yoshio Manaka. Matsumoto and “The Yin Wei controls the Qi of the greasy the information that controls the form and Birch10 (p. 147) report on his discovery concern- membranes, it goes to the lining of the properties of tissues. Finally, it may be as- ing Mu points and their relationship to the body.”10 (p. 141) pects of this flow that have been given underlying fascia. Manaka notes that often many different names by both scientists and when a patient is lying down, the Mu points “Lining” here is used to refer to the super- healers over the years: life force, healing are not reactive, although there is a prob- ficial fascia and most likely the deeper fas- energy, chi, ki, orgone, L-field, kundalini, lem with the organs and meridians the Mu cial structures as well.10 (p. 141) The implica- prana, bioplasma, odic force, etc.”6 (pp. 25-26) points are supposed to reflect. Yet, when the tions of this are substantial. Because the meridian is stretched by extending, rotat- “meridian is Li, the lining,” the meridians Connective tissue’s ability to generate and ing, or flexing the hand or foot, the points themselves are recognized as flowing transmit electrical energy comes from the immediately become reactive. As an ex- through the superficial fascia of the body. way that the fibers and fiber bundles of the ample, someone with a problematic small The Luo vessels, which are the “branches,” myofascial system are arranged in parallel intestine, which was diagnosed by symp- are, therefore, also flowing through the su- arrays. This gives them their great strength toms and palpation of points, showed no perficial fascia. and flexibility; at the same time this ar- soreness at CV-4. When the small intestine rangement gives them a degree of crystal- The system of branches which come out meridian was stretched, however, CV-4 be- linity.6 (p. 10) The soft tissues of the body are from the meridians run through the entire came very reactive. The conclusion drawn not typically considered to be crystalline, body, just as the superficial fascia does. is that the “...Mu points are points of spe- since they are so different from familiar Thus, when the branches “spirally wrap” cific attachment of the fasciae through crystals such as diamonds and quartz. Min- the paired organs, they permeate the fas- which the meridians run.” By moving the eral crystals are hard because their atoms cial envelopes that encircle the organs.10 (p. wrists and ankles in certain ways, the and molecules are mainly spherical and are 142) This makes good sense anatomically, stretched fasciae achieve a level of tension crowded together in strong polygonal ar- since the many fascial systems of the body and, therefore, a heightened conductivity. rays. In contrast, the organic crystals of the are functionally one interconnected system. This, in turn, establishes a tension at the Mu myofascial system consist of long, thin, flex- The fascial tissues of the deepest inner struc- point which makes it more reactive on pal- ible filaments which result in flexible crys- tures and organs of the body connect all the pation. tals. way through to the superficial fascia where How, then, does acupuncture provide rem- the meridians and Luo meridians lie. These highly ordered systems have unique edies? What happens within the acupunc- properties which have been studied for ture system to facilitate changes which take many years. One of these properties is the effect when needling is performed? MODERN RESEARCH piezo electric effect, which occurs in 20 of the Perlow18 has suggested that the energy said 32 mineral crystal types. Simply defined, Recent scientific data have shown the pos- to flow in the meridians is electrical in na- piezo electricity is electricity resulting from sible means through which some of the or- ture. This postulate is supported by impor- pressure on crystals.17 This property is used gan relationships described by the classi- tant findings. Acupuncture points on the in the crystal phonograph needle or crystal cal medical theory may function. As an ex- skin were measured with a Wheatstone microphone, where sound vibrations gen- ample, the Five Phase, Ten Stems, and Yin- bridge and found to have concentrated elec- erate electric fields due to the alternate com- Yang correspondences and functions can be tric conductance.19 A different study pression and expansion of a crystalline lat- understood as “. . . analogs of biophysical showed that the points have the least elec- 10 (p. 160) tice.6 (p. 10) relationships among fascial tissues.” trical resistance (the highest conductivity) Also, the relationship between specific In the body, the myofascial and connective and microscopic analysis showed uniquely acupoints and certain areas of the body, as tissue systems demonstrate the piezoelec- arranged collagen fibers in the area.20 And well as the likely mechanism through which tric effect.6 (p. 11),17 Research has shown that Fleck and Spring21 recorded electrical dis- the meridians develop and operate, may be every movement made by the body gener- charges while needles were being manipu- understood as bioelectric functions of the ates electricity and electric fields. Basset17 lated in points. Clearly there is generation fascial planes. The unifying factor of the notes the cardiovascular system, gravity of electric current when a needle is manipu- many energetic concepts is the system of and the tone of the antigravity muscles, lated at a specific point on the skin.22 fascia. voluntary muscle action, impact with the Lipinski22 summarizes the entire procedure environment, and the continuous activity A model for the recent scientific discover- from a Western physiologic perspective. of cell motion, all lead to the compression ies is proposed by Oschman: The insertion and twirling of a needle in an necessary for field generation. It is now acupuncture point produces a strain which “The cells and tissues of the body are joined commonly thought that these fields expand is transduced into an electric current be- together and composed of an intercon- through the tissues, producing signals that cause of the piezoelectric properties of the nected webwork of macromolecules, the alert the cells to movements, strains, or connective tissue. The electrons generated connective tissue system. The flexibility, other activities in the body. In response, the this way are led throughout the body along elasticity, and resiliency of the tissues com- cells use this information to alter their ac- channels made up of proteins and muco- posed of these molecules are intimately re- tions of nourishing and maintaining the

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION / SUMMER •AUGUST 2003 www.rolf.org 27 CHINESE MEDICINE polysaccharides possessing semiconductive ROLFING whose every post and beam are where they properties. When the stimulus arrives at the should be, a well-built and well-used body cells of a specific organ, the electric current Rolfing is a whole-body system of health functions most efficiently. Due to the con- is again transduced, owing to the inverse care originated by and named for Ida P. stant downward pull of gravity, body parts piezoelectric effect, into the chemical or Rolf, Ph.D. Rolfing focuses on the structure which are not in place – like beams out of mechanical energy necessary to restore of the body, with the intention of releasing alignment and unsupported by a post – are physiological functioning on a molecular the body’s segments – legs, torso, arms, pulled into painfully unnatural positions. and cellular level. head, etc. – from lifelong patterns of ten- Dr. Rolf has commented: sion. The release permits gravity to realign Others who have researched the role of con- the segments and, in doing so, balance the “Some individuals may perceive their los- nective tissue in relation to acupuncture body.24 ing fight with gravity as a sharp pain in have found similar results. Two top Japa- their back, others as the unflattering con- nese researchers, Yoshio Nagahama, M.D., Rolfing is performed in a series of ten dis- tour of their body, others as a constant fa- and Hiroshi Motoyama, Ph.D., have inde- tinct sessions, each approximately an hour tigue, yet others as an unrelentingly threat- pendently reached the conclusion that the long, over the course of which the Rolfer ening environment. Those over 40 may call meridian system lies in the connective tis- uses physical pressure (direct energy) to it old age. And yet all these signals may be sues and specifically in the superficial fas- manipulate the body’s connective tissues to pointing to a single problem, so prominent 25, 26, 27 cia.10 (p. 208) Indeed, Nagahama23 concludes effect easier movement. Manipulation in their own structure, as well as others, that from the research done by himself and other is done with the open hands, fingers, it has been ignored: they are off balance. scientists that acupuncture and moxibus- clenched fists, and occasionally, the side of They are at war with gravity.”31 tion return normal function to the connec- the elbow. The aim is to achieve optimal A healthy body has its large segments tive tissues. He has suggested the expres- alignment. (head, shoulders, torso, pelvis, legs, feet) sion “connective tissue therapy” to describe Benefits include improved health and a arranged with the center of gravity of one acupuncture. 28 sense of revitalization. Chronic pain is re- positioned above another (a straight line Nagahama reports on his years of research leased from muscles and bones. One looks connects the ear, shoulder, hip joint, knee, concerning needle insertion and the depth better and stands and moves more grace- and ankle bone); each section will support at which the De Qi occurs (the obtaining of fully. Breath is fuller, the body is more com- the weight from above with ease. Very little the Qi). When the needle touches the su- fortable, and one stands at one’s tallest pos- muscular effort will be necessary to keep perficial fascia, the strongest De Qi is pro- sible height. Self-confidence increases and the body balanced in this way.27 The other duced and causes electrical potential one presents oneself more naturally. alternative occurs when the body’s large changes that generate small electric cur- Dr. Rolf referred to her work not as segments are not aligned in this stable way. rents. Thus, Nagahama understands De QI “Rolfing,” but as “structural integration.” For example, the head may be thrust for- to be electrical changes associated with the Her goal, and the goal of any practitioner ward, which means the shoulders must lean needle touching the fascia, and the small of Rolfing, is exactly that: integration of the back to compensate. As a consequence, the generated current as producing the thera- structure of the body. Rolfing is guided by abdomen, and thus the lower spine, may peutic effect. He believes that acupoints three simple ideas concerning the human be forward, and other compensations which are reactive to touch may indicate structure:29 throughout the structure will be found. pathologies elsewhere in the body, and, Consequently, enormous muscular effort when these acupoints are needled, the re- 1) the majority of human beings are signifi- must be exerted just to keep the whole sulting electrical potential changes are dis- cantly out of alignment with gravity, structure from collapsing; muscles and tis- tinct from those changes associated with 2) we function much better when we are sues in the neck and upper back must needling non-reactive points. Electrical po- lined up with the earth’s gravitational field, tighten to hold the head “on,” the low back tential changes thus generated are referred and “locks up,” and so on through the body. The to by Nagahama as “abnormal electrical result is a diminished ability to respond currents” and are transmitted to the origin 3) the human body is so plastic that it can flexibly, energetically, and appropriately to of the pathology to assist in treating it. This be brought into balance with gravity at whatever new demands gravity and life belief parallels Ida Rolf’s idea concerning practically any point in one’s life. may make. connective tissue as the medium for inter- Relationship with gravity is the key to Acupuncturists have also noticed the dy- nal pathology which then manifests on the Rolfing. Dr. Rolf looked at body structures namic influence of gravity upon the body. surface of the body. and saw an aggregate of units – head, tho- Matsumoto and Birch10 (p. 187) recognize that 25 (p. 33), 30 The connection between acupuncture’s Qi rax, pelvis, legs, etc. Ideally, these the effect of any imbalance or distortion of and meridians and the connective tissue of individual units are brought toward a ver- the body will always shift the center of grav- the body is clear. It is not a question of tical line when standing at rest. This ensures ity, placing that person “off center.” This whether they are connected or related; they that the structure is capable of maintaining affects the Hara and leads to disorders and are, rather, the same thing – inseparable ex- its form while gravity pulls on the body’s diseases. Keizo Hashimoto has devised an cept through our misleading habit of talk- individual segments. An analogy for the entire therapeutic exercise system based on ing about them as though they were entirely body is a house: “it’s structured so that each this perception. (Interestingly, Matsumoto different manifestations. part has its proper place, and each piece and Birch10 (p. 197-198) also cite research linking interlocks to balance the load of the oth- gravity to the body’s development of the ers.”29 (p. 3) Just as in the well-built house,

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meridians, thus furthering the case for the from a colloid “gel” (semi-solid phase) to a to achieve the Rolfing goals, which, ulti- vitally significant role gravity plays in our “sol” (liquid-like phase).32 This property is mately, are the improved health and qual- well-being.) the basis for tissue changes created by ity of life for the individual. Rosenberg re- physical manipulation. Siemers1 (p. 20) cites lates that he watched a teacher demonstrat- During her scientific research, Dr. Rolf Taylor,33 who explains that the addition of ing Rolfing in class and noted the master made a fundamental discovery concerning mechanical energy raises the energy level craftsman had his fingers on acupuncture the body: “ ... the same network of connec- of a system and plasticity is restored. This points over 90% of the time when working. tive tissue which contains and links the quality of tissue is what makes the results This apparently was not intentional; the muscle system when it’s healthy can be of Rolfing possible. Rolfing training does not teach acupuncture used to reshape it when it’s been pulled out points as an access modality. The conclu- of proper order.”29 (p. 2) Dr. Rolf recognized Acupuncture’s relationship to Rolfing can sion is that, over time, the attuned Rolfer the prime importance of the fascial system, be seen on many levels. Obviously, they are will naturally create alignment with the which works for either the positive or the both using the same medium, connective acupuncture system. negative: it can support whatever patterns tissue, for the remedial aspect of their work. of posture and movement the body adopts. In fact, it’s not just that each system uses In a later article, Rosenberg furthers his ex- It can assist normal, balanced posture. the connective tissue; each system is the plorations.36 He suggests that a Rolfer pal- connective tissue. pate the body tissues while looking at an When muscles are overloaded by constant acupuncture chart. As the Rolfer finds the strain and tension, the connective tissues The intention here is to encourage both acu- tension areas, places he describes the tis- assume the load by shortening and tight- puncturists and Rolfers to recognize con- sue as “ ... even harder, more glued, more ening, and thus give up their elasticity. The nective tissue as the basis of their work and stuck, more electric and more gunky,” the body actually changes shape in response to to enlarge their vision of the work they do acupuncture chart will typically identify the way it is used.29 (p. 2) Many circumstances through an understanding of what others these places (in terms of geography) as acu- lead to body distortion: falling down, ill- are doing. puncture points. He then recommends us- ness, psychological stress, even the way in A Rolfer in Denmark has taken this step. ing the acupuncture points as places to po- which a child copies his or her parents. All Stanley Rosenberg first advanced his ideas sition the Rolfer’s fingers, so as to better leave their imprint as the body’s natural to the general Rolfing community in early access, “tunnel down,” into the connective adaptability proceeds to integrate the injury 1986. As a Rolfer he discovered: tissues where the Rolfer needs to work. The or continuing attitude (be it physical or understandings of one modality (acupunc- emotional) into the rest of the system.31 “...the acupuncture meridians are a map of ture) have increased the effectiveness of the planes of fascia as they manifest in the Fortunately, fascia can be brought back to a another (Rolfing). superficial fascia. By putting my hands on healthy state by returning tissues to their the meridians in certain ways (other than proper alignment and inducing proper traditional acupressure), I can produce movement. In the Rolfing process, the DISCUSSION some predictable improvements in struc- Rolfer works to free up the various hold- ture, easily and with little effort.”34 “... Man’s original medical tool is his hand, ing patterns in the connective tissue. Once which he has instinctively used in order to the movement towards balance and regen- His discovery centered around working alleviate pain. Whenever he is struck, stung, eration begins, it becomes self-perpetuat- structurally with the vertebrae of the spine. or seized with cramps, he involuntarily puts ing. Now the body has a new pattern of Using the Bladder meridian as a landmark his hand to the painful spot in order to pro- movement and behavior. Gravity acts as a system, Rosenberg found that typical tect it or to rub, knead, or massage it. ... In significant integrative factor, with its nega- Rolfing pressure applied to the tissues in- China, it was obviously realized from very tive downward pull transformed to a sup- dicated by the meridian would allow a new early on that massage not only helped to portive lift. Dr. Rolf commented on this re- practicality and directness in unrotating a relieve pain, that is to say, that its effect was sult: vertebra. Rolfers had always been able to not merely local; it was also seen that the achieve this result before; what was differ- This is the gospel of Rolfing: “When the stimulation of certain areas of the skin could ent was the apparent ease this new under- body gets working appropriately, the force affect the internal organs. Experience over standing gave, as well as the possibilities it of gravity can flow through. Then, sponta- thousands of years associated remedial opened up. neously, the body heals itself.”25 (p. 31) massage with the same acupuncture points and meridians...”37 Next, Rosenberg considered the way me- The ability to change is present because of ridians are shown as simple lines on a typi- the plastic nature of connective tissue. The The original source of relief for man’s aches cal acupuncture chart. He came to under- mechanism for this transformation takes and pains, and the tool still as effective to- stand that the meridians could more accu- advantage of one of the unique qualities of day, is man’s own hand. The hands effec- rately be said to define areas – that they fascia. Although fascia is thought of as a tis- tively stimulate the whole body, through have width to them. In terms of connective sue of collagen fibers, these fibers are em- the medium of the connective tissues. tissue, most acupuncture points lie on the bedded in ground substance. For the most Acupressure has been around as long as skin surface, over borders of muscles.35 By part, this ground substance is an amor- acupuncture; the Chinese have a distinct seeing the acupuncture lines as borders, one phous, semifluid gel. It has been shown that form of remedial massage called Tuina; the gets stripes along the body. By manipulat- pressure applied to soft tissues produces a Swedish and others have used massage ing these in the normal Rolfing manner, one phase transition in the ground substance therapeutically for a long time; and now Dr. can access connective tissue in a unique way Rolf has created a specific technique of con-

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION / SUMMER •AUGUST 2003 www.rolf.org 29 CHINESE MEDICINE nective tissue manipulation which is still in looking at a representation of what is go- The other side of the diagnostic picture in- its infancy in terms of understanding its ing on everywhere in that body. The same volves emotions rather than physical ail- potential applications. phenomenon occurs from the ments. An acupuncture patient may have a acupuncturist’s side; one can take any stagnant liver condition and exhibit much Within the acupuncture field, the practice single symptom, perhaps a pale tongue, and anger. This will manifest physically as ri- of diagnosis by palpation (touching and begin to examine it as an example of what gidity in certain parts of the body, with the probing connective tissue to determine rela- is going on throughout the body. fascial tissue tightening in response to the tive imbalances) is now scientifically rec- consistent holding. A particular pattern will ognized for its positive effects.10 (p. 214) Pal- Imbalances can be treated in various ways. emerge, obvious to anyone willing to learn pating the tissue has therapeutic value; it An acupuncturist may use the pulses, and to see. The chest will usually be tight, often makes the tissue more energetically con- then perhaps color, sound, odor, and emo- raised, with resultant shallow breathing. ductive. It is relaxing for the patient and tion, to diagnose an imbalance. Let us as- The chin will be held at a “jutting” angle. prepares the tissue to be in a sol state. All sume one consults a Five Element (Phase) The arms will be held slightly back, and serve to enhance the effects of acupuncture chart and finds that the correct point in this often the legs will adopt a wide stance. The and moxibustion. situation is LV-8 (Ququan). What this indi- overall posture or statement is one of ag- cates is that this specific area of the body, So what causes a specific acupoint to re- gression, though the individual may not be the inner knee, is, at least on a connective quire needling? Since acupuncture energy aware of it – all this because the liver’s func- tissue level, where the blockage has shown runs through the fascial planes (and the tion of smoothing out the energetic flow is up. The chart, or at least the original map- acupuncture points are specific loci within disrupted. However, connective tissue is ping of the Five Element points, indicates this network), the discontinuity of Qi pas- still the medium in which the imbalance that it isn’t in the area of LV-3 (Tai chong) sage must have a physical component. shows up, and the medium through which or GB-39 (Xuanzhong) that one needs to Somehow the area of the point has become it may be corrected. Freeing the anger/ri- focus; it is very specifically at the area restrictive, and a blockage occurs; or per- gidity pattern in the tissues will allow the known as Liver 8. The energetic level has haps the tissue has lost its proper tone, and stagnant energy to begin to move and will eventually led to the physical. the ability to correctly guide the Qi through bring the patient closer to his or her bal- the area is lost, resulting in a deficient flow. From a Rolfer’s point of view, however, a ance and wholeness. The individual moves The result is a physical manifestation of the different process may lead to the same out- out of the restrictive pattern and into new disruption of the higher vibratory/less come. The Rolfer may determine that the possibilities. dense Qi flow. strain in the body’s connective tissue needs Dr. Rolf spoke of the connection between to be addressed in the leg. Without any idea When a needle is inserted in the point of the body and the energy flow and ad- of acupuncture, he places his hands around imbalance, a reorganization takes place. dressed acupuncture concepts as well: the knee and works the tissue area of liver Certainly, there is a therapeutic response 8, and suddenly it may release the whole “The various organs and systems of the which can occur at a distant organ or within sheet of fascia up into the torso. When the body, up to a point, constitute self-con- the meridian itself (or a neighbor). Yet there client stands, he discovers his chronic back tained energy fields. Beyond this point, must also be a change within the fascial tis- pain is gone or his hypertension has less- their algebraic sum assumes significance in sue to reflect the new state of organization ened – in some way he feels relief. that it expresses the characteristic man-as- in the energetic and physical being. If a-whole. Man tends to perceive himself as change does not occur within all parts of This connective tissue connection would a Gestalt; he is rarely able to differentiate the system, the balance is not whole. The explain why certain acupuncture points are the elements of his physical functioning. To original imbalance will eventually lead to considered key for specific situations. K-3 him, his bad temper of a morning is part of similar or perhaps (seemingly) new symp- (Taixi) or BL-40 (Weizhong) are considered his character, not the result of a blocked bile toms. quite useful for low back pain, for example; duct or an inadequate liver. He simply in- and it is also taught that St-36 (Zusanli) is Rolfers excel in looking at the body and cludes in his self-image his chronic aches the master point for the leg. Why St-36? “reading” the pattern in connective tissue. and pains; these are a part of his behavior. Could it be that this area is a major connec- Up to now, the focus has been on the struc- To us, these aches and pains record the ef- tive tissue junction point whose influence tural aspects of the body. With a shift in fect of the energy pattern of the earth (the can be felt throughout the leg? Whatever emphasis, however, the same pattern which gravitational field) on the man’s personal the imbalance, when that particular area is speaks to the Rolfer of a restricted ribcage, energy field.”30 addressed, the fascia is better aligned, the stooped shoulders, and resultant tilt of the flow of energy becomes more appropriate, A disruption of the energy flow will always pelvis may be read by a knowledgeable acu- and the symptom disappears. manifest in the tissues. Conversely, a dis- puncturist as a lung deficiency with an un- ruption in the order and balance of the tis- derlying kidney imbalance. Admittedly, it is rare that one needle or one sues will ultimately manifest in the energy manipulation of Rolfing, will by itself com- Ida Rolf once said that one can tell all about flow. The imbalance can start at either end pletely heal a problem. Yet, it is true that a person just by looking at a single joint.38 of the spectrum. Eventually the physical acupuncture points used together or in a While this isn’t typically done, it would and the energetic will reflect each other, series will typically complete the healing. make sense, because the connective tissue because they are each other. In the begin- The whole must be dealt with; releasing or system is a whole. When looking at ning, embryologically, we are symmetrical rebalancing only part of the pattern will not someone’s knee or elbow or neck, one is beings. Once we are out of the womb and give a lasting result.

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moving in gravity, however, distortions they have been found to correspond to the of having a useful complementary therapy occur, and we move away from our sym- classical acupuncture channels. The art of for clients, Rolfing is an excellent choice. metry. We may use the right arm more than Rolfing has to do very much with freeing Often it will speed up the rate of recovery the left, and we use it in a different way. We areas of fascia that have come to stick to- for the acupuncture patient and can some- might fall down and the sacrum might gether through trauma, infection or chronic times help create a breakthrough for a pre- move a bit anteriorly, and from then on, our muscular tension.”39 viously unyielding problem. The specula- knees may point out somewhat as we walk. tion is that a “Rolfed” body will respond Once again we have the inherent under- Perhaps the imbalance began with a situa- more quickly and deeply to acupuncture standing that connective tissue is the key tion of mental strain or emotional upheaval than a non-”Rolfed” one. This makes sense component in the health maintenance sys- which led to increased physical tension. when we understand the role of connective tem of the body. Whatever system is stud- Whatever the cause, as soon as we move tissue in the movement of Qi. ied – acupuncture, Rolfing, Yoga, etc. – it is away from symmetry, we are no longer the connective tissue with which one even- Additionally, when acupuncture is used as physically “in our center;” we no longer tually works. a tool of preventative medicine, it is in many move through our center of mass. And en- ways achieving its highest level of effective- ergetically, we are no longer as connected What can Rolfing offer acupuncture? Acu- ness. Helping someone stay healthy is true to our center of Qi, the Hara or Tantien. So, puncture is obviously a full and complete “health care,” as opposed to the more com- energetically the imbalance is real, and per- system unto itself. Yet, within the acupunc- mon “sickness care” typically offered today. haps the physical symptom of a neck ache ture field, there is much diversity in terms The dynamic ability of Rolfing to free the begins to appear. Structurally one might of diagnosis and treatment: though Chi- tissues and thus ensure the least restriction notice in the mirror that one shoulder is nese, Korean, Japanese, French, and English to the Qi flow suggests Rolfing is fully in- higher than the other. forms share things in common, they also dicated as a complementary therapy for vary widely. Even within a form, there is In looking for a solution, palpation will al- effective results in the realm of prevention. great contrast; Chinese Five Element ways be a useful diagnostic tool. For ex- (Phases) diagnosis and treatment often What does acupuncture offer to Rolfing? ample, one may find loose, sagging muscles seems totally unconnected to the Chinese Rolfing has mainly been associated with the hanging under the arm. This would indi- Eight Principles format. Yet both work, and easily recognizable structural changes it has cate a deficient condition, and the merid- both may rightfully be considered acupunc- produced. Yet an opening of the focus ians passing through this area would need ture. What the Rolfing model offers is a new within the Rolfing field seems called for to be considered. There would also be a understanding of the physical basis of acu- because connective tissue is the basis for balancing or compensating area somewhere puncture - connective tissue. This can be changes acupuncture creates. Often Rolfing in the body, an area of tightness in the tis- considered and applied regardless of which clients will report changes in their health sues, a Yang to balance the Yin. Clearly, the style of acupuncture is being used. Aware- and vitality that are not easily explained in whole must be considered to fully balance ness of the physical manifestation of the terms of simply standing straighter and and heal the body. energetic system will give acupuncturists moving easier. More internal change has Besides Rolfing and acupuncture, other sys- more choices in diagnosis and treatment. gone on than can be simply accounted for tems and disciplines also consider the body Seeing the structure as an outward reflec- by better posture. Initially, Rolfers can use as a whole and have connective tissue as tion of the internal situation will result in the acupuncture model for a deeper, more an integral part of their functional basis. an improved capacity to know the whole encompassing understanding of the reality Yoga, Qi Gong, Tai Chi Ch’uan (Taijiquan), pattern the patient is presenting. Once it is they are touching when they place their and various martial arts all recommend recognized that the structure of the body hands on the body. Ultimately, a synthesis specific movements of the body, typically does influence the meridian flow, one real- of the two models will allow the Rolfer to integrated with the breath, that encourage izes that palpation will reveal even more recognize typical patterns from acupunc- a balancing of the internal energy flow. This information. Anywhere there is muscular ture and more effectively free up the physi- stretching and opening of the lines of fas- tension, there is blockage in the meridian cal manifestations of the imbalance. This cia in the body allows the free movement flow. Thus, the diagnostic skills will be will not lead Rolfers away from what they of the structure as well as the internal move- sharpened. do. It will, instead, allow them to do it with ment of Qi, blood, and other fluids. One of more intention and awareness. Here too, as It is not suggested that acupuncturists need the better known Taoist masters teaching with acupuncture, research would be ex- to learn to do Rolfing, but it would be ben- energy cultivation and martial arts today, tremely valuable in furthering the possibili- eficial for them to be comfortable with and Mantak Chia, in talking about his Iron Shirt ties contained within the two worlds. competent to work broadly with the con- Chi Kung (Qi Gong), has said: nective tissue when such work will speed One model for investigation of the connec- “The fascia is extremely important in Iron up and improve the healing process. This tion between Rolfing and acupuncture Shirt. This tissue is the most pervasive in added dimension would not be discarding would be to work with a typical acupunc- the body and is currently believed to be the the acupuncture model; rather, it would ture patient and objectively determine his means whereby Qi is distributed along acu- involve working deeper within it. or her underlying “causative factor” as it is puncture routes. Researchers in France have sometimes called in Five Elements work, or Also, it will benefit the individual acupunc- discovered that the least resistance to the “patterns of the bodily landscape” as Ted turist to recognize and appreciate the pos- flow of Qi occurs between the fascia and Kaptchuk40 refers to the Eight Principles sibilities of health and healing that are of- that when these routes have been charted work. Next, take the individual through the fered through the Rolfing process. In terms

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION / SUMMER •AUGUST 2003 www.rolf.org 31 CHINESE MEDICINE normal ten sessions of Rolfing and then re- 2. Asimov, I.: The Human Body. Houghton 19. Reichmanis, M., Marino, A.A., Becker, evaluate to find how much the patient has Mifflin Co., Boston, 1963, p. 73. R.O.: “Electrical Correlates of Acupunc- ture Points.” IEEE Trans. Biomed. Eng., improved. What degree of balance in the 3. Anthony, C.P., Kolthoff, N.J.: Textbook of 1975; Nov.: 533. energy can be achieved through this physi- Anatomy and Physiology, C. V. Mosby cal manner of working? As an example, a Company, Saint Louis, 1975, p. 41. 20. Rabischong, P., et al.: “Bases typical complaint which brings someone to experimentales de l’analgesie acupunc- 4. Snyder, G.E.: “Fascia: Applied Anatomy a Rolfer is chronic low back pain. Since this ture.” Nouv. Press Med., 1975; 74: 2021. and Physiology.” In: Academy of Applied is usually remedied within the context of Osteopathy Yearbook, 1956, p 65. 21. Fleck. H., Spring, M.: “The Acupunc- the ten session sequence, does it mean a ture Point.” NY State J Med, 1974; 74: 1060. possible Deficient Kidney condition was 5. Little, K. E.: “Toward More Effective alleviated through the freeing up and reor- Manipulative Management of Chronic 22. Lipinski, B.: “Biological Significance of ganizing of the connective tissue? If so, how Myofascial Strain and Stress Syndromes.” Piezo-electricity in Relation to Acupunc- J. Amer. Osteop., Assoc., 1969; 68 (March): ture, Hatha Yoga, Osteopathic Medicine much? 675-685. and Action of Air Ions.” Med. Hypotheses, 1977; 3(1): 9-12. On the basis of the modalities explored, it 6. Oschman, J. L.: The Connective Tissue is clear that the body’s healing response and Myofascial Systems. Aspen Research 23. Nagahama, Y.: Shinkyu no Igaku depends on how well the connective tissue Institute, Berkeley, 1987. (Western Studies of Acupuncture and system is addressed. Connective tissue is Moxibustion). Sogen Sha, Osaka, 1956, p. 7. Page, K. E.: “The Role of the Fascia in either the source of the difficulty or at least 174. the Maintenance of Structural Integrity.” a major component in the way imbalance Academy of Applied Osteopathy Yearbook, 24. Hazen, D., Gold, I.: Rolfing: An materializes in the body. Therefore, connec- 1952, p 70. Approach Toward The Whole Human Being. tive tissue is a vital medium for the reme- Rolf Institute®, Boulder, 1988, p. 2. dial action necessary to return missing equi- 8. Rolf, I.P., Rolfing: The Integration of librium. It is the medium through which the Human Structures. Harper and Row, New 25. Rolf, I. P.: Ida Rolf Talks about Rolfing re-balancing Qi will be transmitted, the elec- York, 1977. and Physical Reality. Feitis, R. (ed.), Harper and Row, New York, 1988, p. 214. trical and chemical messages delivered, and 9. Oschman, J. L.: “Applied Physiology.” the tensions and strains released. Andrew Rolf Lines 1989; 17 (Winter). 26. Hunt, V., Massey, W.: “Electromyo- T. Still, the developer of Osteopathy, also graphic Evaluation of Structural Integra- 10. Matsumoto, K. and Burch, S.: Hara tion Techniques.” Psychoenergetic Systems, understood the vast importance of the con- Diagnosis: Reflections on the Sea. Paradigm 1977; 2: 199-210. nective tissue system of the body and de- Publications, Brookline, Ma., 1988. clared: “The fascia is the place to look for 27. Hammann, K.: “What Structural 11. National Chinese Medical Herb the cause of disease and the place to con- Integration (Rolfing) Is and Why It Research Center Publishing Company: sult and begin the action of remedies ...”41 Works.” Osteo. Phys., 1972; March: 1-12. Nei Jing Jie Po Sheng Li Xue, (Anatomy and He also said: “By its action we live and by Physiology of the Inner Canon), 2nd ed., 28. Larson, D.: Rolfing: The Integration of its failure we die.”42 National Chinese Medical Herb Research the Human Structure. Privately published, The focus of this paper has been the physi- Center Publishing Company, Taipei, 1979, Missoula, 1985. p. 228. cal level of the energetic system of the body. 29. Mixter, J.: “Rolfing.” In: Whole Body Once the role of connective tissue in acu- 12. Ido no Nippon Sha, (trans.): Jing Luo Healing, by Carl Lowe, James Nechas, and puncture is acknowledged, Qi becomes less Shi Jiang (Ten Lectures on the Meridians). the Editors of Prevention Magazine. an elusive, mysterious, “can’t be translated” Ido no Nippon Sha. Yokosuka, 1980, pp. Rodale Press, Emmaus, 1983, p. 1. 64-65. concept. Rather, it is something that practi- 30. Rolf, I. P.: “Structural lntegration: A tioners are placing their hands on each day. 13. Morahashi, (ed.): Daikanama Jiten Contribution to the Understanding of The acupuncture system in the body is defi- (Morohashi Encyclopedic Dictionary of Stress.” Confin. Psychiatr., 1973; 16:69-79. nitely more than physical; the physical com- Chinese) Daishukan Sha, Tokyo, 1959. ponent to it simply has not been recognized 31. Sise, B.: Rolfing: Structural Balance 14. Fujido, A.: Gakuken Kanwadaijiten Opens Potential. Rolf Institute, Boulder. fully. For acupuncture to continue to serve (Fujido’s Etymological Dictionary). Gakushu 1987. humanity, it is important that it include this Kenkyu Sha, Tokyo, 1978. new understanding, adding knowledge to 32. Cottingham, J., Porges, S., Richmond, the depth and breadth of what it does so 15. Flaws, B., et al.: Blue Poppy Essays. Blue K.: “Shifts in Pelvic Inclination Angle and well, so that it may do it even better. We Poppy Press, Boulder, 1988, pp. 269-270. Parasympathetic Tone Produced by Rolfing Soft Tissue Manipulation.” J. owe this to ourselves as practitioners as well 16. Lin, X.: Nan Jing Zheng Yi (Verified Amer. Phys. Therapy Assoc., 1988; 68(9): as to those we serve. Meaning of the Canon of Perplexities) (1895), 1364-1370. Science and Technology Publishing Company, Shanghai, 1981, p. 50. 33. Taylor, R. B.: “Bioenergetics of Man.” REFERENCES In: Academy of Applied Osteopathy Yearbook, 17. Basset, C. A. L.: “Biologic Significance 1958; pp. 91-96. 1. Siemers, C. E.,: Adult Basic Connective of Piezoelectricity.” Calk. Tiss. Res., 1968; I: Tissue. Ida P. Rolf Foundation, Boulder, 252-272. 34. Rosenberg, S.: “Back Work.” Rolf Lines, 1973, p. iii. 1986; 14 (Jan.-Feb.): 31-33. 18. Perlow, B. W.: “Acupuncture: Its Theory and Use in General Practice.” 35. Rosenberg, S.: “Open Letter.” Rolf Proc. Roy. Soc. Med., 1973; 66:426. Lines, 1986; 14 (June-July): 20-25.

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36. Rosenberg, S.: “Movements That Rolf, Part II.” Rolf Lines, 1988; 16 (Sept.-Oct.): 16-19. 37. Palos, S.: The Chinese Art of Healing. Bantam Books, New York, 1972, p. 19. 38. Leviton, R.: “The Holographic Body.” East/West Journal, 1988; (August) 18(8): 36- 47. 39. Chia, M.: Iron Shirt Chi Kung. Photo- copied Handout, 1978. 40. Kaptchuk, T.: The Web that Has no Weaver. Congdon & Weed, New York, 1983, p. 201. 41. Truhar, R. B.: Doctor A.T. Still in the Living. Privately published, Cleveland, 1950, p. 54. 42. Still, A. T.: The Philosophy and Mechani- cal Principles of Osteopathy. Hudson- Kimberly Publishing Co., Kansas City, 1902, p. 60.

Jushikyo (The Routes of The Fourteen Channels and Their Functions): Kyoto, 1716. Shown here is a description of 20 acupuncture points on the arm that are used to treat colon diseases. It is written in poetry for easier memo- rization.

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