James Schwartz Rolfing

Specialties

I am an Advanced Rolfer with 27 years experience. I have trained in Visceral Manipulation, craniosacral work, neuromyofascial (nerve) work and in Somatic Experiencing (trauma work). I have worked closely with chiropractors, acupuncturists, yoga and Pilates teachers and have worked with numerous athletes (from world record holders to weekend warriors) and performers (instrumentalists, singers, dancers). I have a particular interest in the experience of embodiment and self-​realization that often comes from Rolfing. Rolfing is known for the 10 session series, but for the last 10 years, I typically do much shorter series, (from 3 – 7 sessions with new clients) and the majority of clients get significant changes within the 1^st session. In recent years, a significant part of my practice is working with complex nerve and muscle injuries and this year I have added a cold laser, a powerful and versatile tool for reducing inflammation of nerves and soft tissue and breaking up adhesions and scar tissue.

History

Established in 1988.

I first got Rolfed in 1977 in college and it was a life changing experience. Not only did it radically change my dismal posture but I felt more flexible and comfortable in my body than I had previously thought possible. Everything from singing to cycling and hiking got easier. I also found that it even seemed to change my stance in life. Even though I had long since snapped out of a period of depression as an adolescent, my body still looked depressed. This changed dramatically after my very first Rolfing session. I stood taller and straighter than I had since childhood.

The biggest change in my work in recent years has been in learning to work with nerves. This has allowed me to work with chronic and acute pain far more effectively than before. In recent years I have added a percussor and a cold laser to my work — these and the nerve work have dramatically expanded the range of clients I can work with effectively.

Meet the Business Owner

James S.

Business Owner

I grew up in the Chicago area and went to college in Michigan and then ended up teaching English and translating in France for ten years before moving to Brazil for 6 months where I married my Brazilian wife. We finally moved to San Rafael, CA in 1987 and I knew it was time to start my Rolfing training. Since then, I have continued to update my skills in Rolfing and other related skills and have assisted in several Rolfing, Visceral Manipulation and nerve work classes. Now that my children are older, I expect to do much more teaching.