Ida P. Rolf originated Rolf Structural Integration. It's based on the simple proposition that the human body, living in the field of Gravity as it does, is just like any other physical structure on Earth. Subject to the constant and ever present pull of Gravity. This means structures of any kind in order to be stable and enduring must at their core design be stacked up vertically, symmetrical and level. Basic Physics. The human body's anatomical design calls for the same arrangement.

Dr. Rolf was formerly trained as a scientist in Biochemistry, receiving her doctorate from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1920. For several years after was also a researcher at the prestigious Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research. 

As of result of her background interests and wide self studies, she eventually began to practice an approach to human health and performance using soft tissue manipulation and movement coaching. Her basic idea that things work better and are healthy relate to those in the fields of Osteopathy and Chiropractic. Unlike those approaches, which have as their core concept a picture of health based on proper alignments in the bony skeleton, Dr. Rolf furthered the concept to include not only the relationship of the major segments of the body to one another, but the relationship of the whole body in relationship to its Earthly environment. Specifically, the Gravitational Field of the Earth.