A form of bodywork/ massage developed by Judith Aston out of her critique of Rolfing. Rolfing was a popular massage technique developed by Ida Rolf that emphasized the manipulation of deep connective tissues (fascia) between the bone joints. Aston had been introduced to Rolfing during her recovery from the effects of an automobile accident. When first experienced, Rolfing could be quite painful, but many who underwent the treatment felt that the pain was worth the long-term benefits.
Aston, who went on to become a Rolfer, began to disagree with her teacher at two primary points. First, she felt that Rolfing applied too much force to the body, and that the level of treatment should be adjusted to each individual. Second, from her perspective as a former dancer, she questioned Rolf’s emphasis upon the symmetry of the body. She believed that most body movements were, in fact, asymmetrical. Aston introduced a set of movements based upon her dancing experience that were designed to encourage the various parts of the body to work together. Her new synthesis of massage and movement was termed structural patterning.