A Brief Structural Integration Overview
The following is a brief Structural Integration Overview from the Anatomy Trains Structural Integration (ATSI) approach. ATSI specifically emphasizes continuous myofascial lines of tension throughout the body that are altered by short and long tensional relationships. As a result, many people fall into stuck patterns that lead to chronic pain and reduced movement health. Fortunately, the ATSI series, offered by both Xavier and Natalie at Somatic Healing and Alignment in Edina and Lakeville, develops a more resilient system, as our bodies rely on optimal tensegrity. Upon completion of the 12 series, movement in life becomes effortless and chronic pain has ceased.
A Brief Structural Integration Origin
The concept of structural integration began with Dr. Ida Rolf in 1958. Her 10-series approach laid the foundation for what would evolve into many methods over time. One of the most notable developments to emerge from that foundation is Anatomy Trains Structural Integration (ATSI), founded by Thomas Meyers. The ATSI method builds on Dr. Rolf’s original blueprint for structural integration, further honing the teaching and efficacy of structural integration.
Understanding the 12 Series: A Path Towards Healthy Myofascia
Building on that foundation, Anatomy Trains Structural Integration utilizes a 12-series protocol to effectively address the myofascial lines of tension. Throughout each session, the work aims to enhance the individual’s somatic map and body awareness.
The Initial Four Sessions: Freeing the Superficial Sleeve
The series begins at the surface, working through four sessions that address the body’s outer layers:
- Superficial Front Line (SFL): Engages the front of the body.
- Superficial Back Line (SBL): Addresses the posterior aspect.
- Lateral Line (LL): Opens up the sides.
- Spiral Line (SPL): Corrects superficial rotations.
The Core Sessions: A Deeper Postural Release
Once the superficial sleeve has been opened, the next four sessions target deeper myofascial structures. This stage is essential for releasing ingrained patterns, and it aims to create coherent lines of support from the feet all the way up to the head:
- Deep Front Line (DFL): Focuses on the inseam of the leg.
- Deep Front Line (DFL): Enhances deeper breath and rotation.
- Deep Back Line (DFL): Balances the front with deep back work.
- Deep Front Line (DFL): Connects head, neck, and jaw.
The Final Sessions: Integrate Movement in Gravity
With the deeper structures released, the last four sessions bridge the gap between superficial tissues and the deep front line. Together, they emphasize coordination of movement within gravity:
- Gait: Ensures ease of movement.
- Breath: Provides space for breath expansion.
- Shoulder and Arm Lines: Positions arms over the ribcage.
- Balance and Graduation: Settles the entire movement pattern.
Common Outcomes After the Twelve Series
Completing the 12 sessions marks a significant journey. More than just a treatment, it acts as a catalyst for change—be it physical, emotional, or mental.
On the physical side, the work leads to a reduction and often a full elimination of chronic pain, such as that spot on your neck or the hip thats been hurting forever. Beyone pain relief, it is also highly effective for preventing excessive wear and tear on the joints over the years. If a knee or hip replacement ‘runs’ in the family, starting the series sooner rather than later is well worth considering.
As for the emotional and mental shifts, these are more personal, and they tend to come to light as amnesic areas of the body are brought into conscious awareness. In other words, unresolved energy in the past, i.e. trauma, is brought from the unconscious to the conscious, and the body is ready to work through those emotional instances. In turn, the 12 series provides more adaptability and space, ultimately leading to more resilience and capacity for discomfort from any source.
It’s also worth noting that the tactile information learned, cognitively and bottom up, can take weeks to months to fully integrate. For that reason, after completing the 12 series, it is advised to wait six months to a year before pursuing another extensive series. If additional support is needed in the meantime, a 3-series or tune up session can always be scheduled.
Exploring the 3 Series: A Quick Intervention
In contrast to the comprehensive 12 series, the 3-series approach serves as a follow-up or tune-up after a 12-series, perfect for those with limited time and equally ideal for athletes in season.
Structure of the 3 Series
- Pelvic Girdle: Balances myofascial lines from feet to pelvis.
- Pelvis to Shoulder Girdle: Enhances breath and ribcage alignment.
- Spine Out: Unwinds spinal tension and restrictions.
Because the 3-series is less intense than the 12-series. clients can pursue a longer series sooner after completing this shorter option, allowing for continued, uninterrupted improvement.
Key Takeaways: Comparing the 12 and 3 Series
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your goals and availability. The 12 series offers thorough, body-wide awareness and significant potential for movement and lasting change. Given its depth, however, this comprehensive method takes longer to fully assimilate across the physical, emotional, and mental realms.
The 3 series, by contrast, focuses on rapid assessments and corrections. Although it doesn’t reach the same depth as the 12 series, this shorter option remains highly effective for those with limited time.
When the 3 series follows a completed 12 series, clients are better prepared for the advanced work involved in Anatomy Trains Structural Integration. These two approaches form a holistic, transformative catalyst for ongoing physical, emotional, and mental change, one that continues to develop long after the final session.
References
About Tom Myers – Background & History. (n.d.). Anatomy Trains. https://www.anatomytrains.com/about-us/about-tom-myers/
History of Rolfing – Dr. Ida Rolf Institute. (2025). Rolf.org. https://rolf.org/history.php