Who was Marion Rosen?

Marion Rosen studied breath and relaxation in Germany with Lucy Heyer, who had been trained by Elsa Gindler, a pioneer in the German tradition of psychosomatic therapy. Marion fled Germany at the beginning of World War II and came to America in 1940, settling in Berkeley, California. She worked for many years as a physiotherapist and gradually developed Rosen Method, observing the interconnections between the body and the emotional state of a person. More information can be found here: https://roseninstitute.net/about/about-rosen-method/history/

 

What does a typical Rosen session look like?

Each Rosen session is slightly different, but it most commonly includes gentle work on the back (prone) and front (supine) of the body. The practitioner guides the client in identifying areas of tension, and the client is encouraged to feel into and perhaps verbalize what arises for them in the moment. 

 

How will I feel after the bodywork session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity, but occasionally there can be mild soreness after receiving bodywork. People often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and more feelings of connection and ease.

 

What are the benefits of Rosen bodywork?
Rosen bodywork can help release chronic tension and pain (both emotional and physical) improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Bodywork is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.

 

Must I be undressed for the session?
Rosen Method bodywork is classically performed with the client unclothed (to underwear) but some opt to wear close fitting athletic attire, where the muscles of the back can be seen/palpated. You will be properly draped during the entire session.
 

Are there any conditions that would make Rosen Method bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. If you are under a doctor's or psychologist's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a recommendation for bodywork prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.

 

What does Rosen Method Bodywork training consist of?

from Rosenmethod.com:

In order to become a Rosen Method Bodywork practitioner, students must complete a minimum of six immersions, 8 private supervisions and 8 private Rosen Method sessions [a total of 268 hours]. Upon completion of training hours, students receive an evaluation of their readiness for internship. The internship is a concentrated period of professional mentorship in which the intern develops a private practice with the support of experienced supervisors, private Rosen Method sessions, and peer group support.

Upon completion of the internship requirements, the intern is evaluated for readiness for certification. 

This program is approved as vocational training by the California Board of Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education.