Unlike conventional massage which works with the movement of circulation and nervous tension, Structural Myofascial Release (which includes Deep Tissue bodywork) focuses on the long-term patterns of resistance and compensation in the connective tissues of the body. Even when deeply relaxed, our body still holds and maintains a set of imprinted limitations which are the basis for numerous pains and restrictions in expression both physical and non-physical.
Structural Myofascial Release relies on the understanding of the different connective tissue layers of the body, and in the ability to work with these layers to relax, lengthen, and release holding patterns in the most effective and energy efficient way possible. In Structural Myofascial Release the emphasis is on altering structures and muscle restrictions, and most people feel an increased degree of relaxation, the alleviation of pain, and longer lasting benefits.
Lucien Demaris also offers a series of Structural Integration he calls the Life Integration Series. His series consists of a holistic system of 12 sessions of Structural Myofascial Release inspired on the original work of Dr. Ida Rolf (known as "Rolfing"). Lucien Demaris' Life Integration series identifies the lines of force and the pathways of communication upon which the body’s movements and expression rely and proceed to melt and coax openness, flexibility and release into areas of long forgotten resistance. His series also incorporates the system of movement education lessons Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement® and Craniosacral Therapy to restore the body's natural balance from the inside out.
(*Rolfing® and Rolfer® are registered marks of the Rolf Institute®. The generic term for this line of bodywork is Structural Integration.)