Curriculum

Structural Integration Principles (SIP) I-III

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the history and foundational principles of Structural Integration, emphasizing the relationship between gravity, alignment, and balance in human function. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of how structure affects movement and balance, focusing on concepts such as tensional integrity and myofascial adaptability. 

  SIP I - focuses on the extrinsic myofascial structures.

  SIP II - focuses on the intrinsic myofascial structures. 

  SIP III - focuses on the integration of the entire structure. 

Structural Integration Series (SIS) I-X

  SIS I – Session 1

Goal: Opening the sleeve - freeing breath and superficial fascia

Terrain: ribcage, sternum, shoulders, neck; lateral pelvis/leg & hamstrings

  SIS II – Session 2

Goal: Support for the body - establishing a relationship to the ground

Terrain: feet, legs, knees, thighs, pelvis

  SIS III – Session 3

Goal: Lateral line - creating front/back dimension

Terrain: neck, arms/shoulders, torso, pelvis, thighs and knees

  SIS IV – Session 4

Goal: Medial Line - building up core support and strength 

Terrain: ankle, knees, medial thigh, pelvic floor

  SIS V – Session 5

Goal: Anterior Line - visceral organization and core activation 

Terrain: front of the legs, abdomen, psoas, diaphragm, ribs & sternum

  SIS VI – Session 6

Goal: Posterior Line - creating a vertical line of symmetry 

Terrain: posterior ankle, calves and thighs; gluteals, deep rotator muscles, sacrum, spine

  SIS VII – Session 7

Goal: Adaptability - balancing the neck and head on the spine 

Terrain: chest, shoulders, neck, jaw, cranium

  SIS VIII – Session 8

Goal: Structural Integration - stability and adaptability 

Terrain: lower girdle, legs, hips and pelvis

  SIS IX – Session 9

Goal: Functional Integration - contralateral movement 

Terrain: upper girdle, arms, shoulders, chest back, head and neck

  SIS X – Session 10

Goal: Integration - horizontal lines 

Terrain: ankles, knees, hips, diaphragm, neck, cranium

Structural Integration Techniques (SIT) I-III

This hands-on course focuses on equipping students with the skills to perform Structural Integration bodywork techniques. Students use myofascial manipulation techniques to improve the structural balance of the human body. Emphasis is placed on developing precision in touch, differentiating layers and tissue types, soft tissue assessment skills and proper body mechanics. 

  SIT I - focuses on the extrinsic myofascial structures.

  SIT II - focuses on the intrinsic myofascial structures.

  SIT III - focuses on core/sleeve balance, asymmetries and counter rotations of the girdles, limbs, back and neck to achieve integration of the entire structure. 

Structural Integration Practicum (SIPR)

In this practicum, students review, further refine, and practice assessment and hands-on skills under the in-person guidance of experienced instructors.

Structural Integration Home Practicum (SIHPR)

In this home practicum, students apply their skills and knowledge to deliver the Structural Integration 10-Series to four community volunteers. Students will take pictures of their clients before and after each session, document the session experience, and discuss with their faculty advisor. 

Gravity and Body Alignment

An overview of the development of the human form and function, emphasizing factors that interfere with optimal movement development. 

Introduction to Structural Integration Movement

An introduction to basic movement principles and movement facilitation. Students learn to observe and analyze movement patterns in relation to the structural objectives of the SI sessions. 

Movement Lab 1

In this course, students explore extrinsic (sleeve) movement patterns through experiential exercises which provide a foundation of movement awareness. 

Movement Lab 2

This course focuses on movement assessment and experiences designed to establish intrinsic (core) movement. 

Movement Lab 3

This course focuses on integration - movement that facilitates intrinsic/extrinsic (core/sleeve) balance, contralaterality at all levels - spine from sacrum to cranium, pelvis, shoulder girdles, and arms and legs. 

SI Movement Practicum

Students learn to communicate movement lessons and assist clients in developing awareness of their movement patterns. The purpose of movement education is to maintain and enhance the benefits of the structural integration sessions.

Introduction to Body Systems

The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with the systems of the human body and give general descriptions of their structure and function. 

Structural & Functional Assessment 1

The objective is for students to develop an understanding of how the musculoskeletal system provides the functions of balance and alignment for the body. This course includes an overview of the extrinsic musculoskeletal components and their relationship to one another. 

Structural & Functional Assessment 2

This course continues the exploration of musculoskeletal relationships focusing on the intrinsic structures of the body. 

Myofascial Anatomy

This course covers the fascial matrix, the relationship of fascia to muscle, superficial and deep fascia, facial planes of the body and connective tissues. In addition, origins and insertions of all the major muscle groups are studied. 

Applied Human Anatomy and Physiology

Students develop the ability to visually and manually identify the myofascial structures of the human body and to assess joint function including range of motion, end-feel qualities, neuromuscular and myofascial restrictions. 

Introduction to Biomechanics

Based on the principles of connective tissue adaptability and tensegrity mechanics, this course teaches students how to bring balance to the shoulder girdle and pelvis to achieve the goals of structural and functional integration.

Ergonomics

This course applies principles of movement ergonomics that can affect optimal movement functioning.

Ethics and the Therapeutic Relationship

This course explores the ethical principles and interpersonal dynamics crucial to a Structural Integration practice. Topics include confidentiality, informed consent, professional conduct, recognizing and managing transference and countertransference, practitioner self-awareness, and maintaining appropriate boundaries. 

Body/Mind Communication

This course delves into the profound connection between the mind and body. Students will gain insights into the relationship between mental, emotional, and physical processes and how these shape human movement and communication patterns.

Practice Development

This course provides a guide to building and managing a successful Structural Integration practice. Topics include financial planning, client management, professional and legal requirements, marketing, and business growth strategies.