The Background for KMI

KMI, Kinesis Myofascial Integration, is a unique approach to improved function

via soft-tissue manipulation and movement education. Based primarily on the pioneering work of Dr. Ida P. Rolf, KMI also partakes of the movement explorations of Moshe Feldenkrais, Judith Aston, and Emilie Conrad – developmental movement patterns, biomechanical efficiency, and exploratory movement - as well as principles of resonance inherent in the European approaches to cranial and visceral osteopathy.

The KMI Structural Integration method relies on the property of plasticity in both our connective tissues and our neural patterning. Such patterns arise from our long-held habits, the follow-on from our injuries, and the expression of our attitudes. We use deep touch and client engagement to discharge accumulated tensions, unwind fascial binding, and introduce new, more straightforward movement patterning.

Using the concepts of tensegrity geometry developed by Buckminster Fuller applied to the bones, muscles, and connective tissues, KMI seeks an even-toned balance across the myofascial system which allows for optimum physiology for both artery and nerve, for the organs within their cavities, and for efficient skeletal alignment.

KMI work is usually done as a series of about a dozen sessions undertaken over a period of a couple of months. In other words, it is a project, with a beginning, middle, and an end. KMI is not designed as on-going therapy and works best with short periods of intense work interspersed with longer periods to “own” the changes via your own movement.

The KMI session series unfolds logically, based around coherent meridians of myofascial connection – each session opening and balancing a different set of connected tissues. Following the principles enunciated by Dr. Rolf, KMI practitioners use a wide vocabulary of touch to evoke and restore the natural balance, awareness, length, and ease in their clients.

Training in KMI requires a strong commitment to the principles of true integrative systemic healing (as opposed to the quick symptomatic fix), toward on-going self-discovery, and to learning an art, science, and craft that is still in active development.

KMI training provides an open-inquiry learning environment, where other methods and approaches are respected, where ideas are freely discussed, where the emotional aspect of learning is honored, and where individual approaches to learning and working are encouraged.

KMI was originally evolved by Rolfer®, author,

and anatomist Tom Myers. A student of Dr. Rolf’s, Tom Myers developed the Anatomy Trains as a way of teaching “connected anatomy” to students at the Rolf Institute. Realizing that the Anatomy Trains presented a more sensible way of addressing the complexities of human movement and postural patterning, Mr. Myers started Kinesis Myofascial Integration trainings in 1998.

The Anatomy Trains book (Elsevier, 2001) has sold over 30,000 copies and has been (or is being) translated into seven other languages. The widespread interest in Anatomy Trains has fueled interest in KMI. To date, Kinesis has held around a dozen trainings, and approximately 150 practitioners are practicing KMI in the USA, UK, and Europe. Two or more trainings are held each year, depending on demand.

The KMI school has grown over the past decade, and a dedicated faculty now help provide quality education in structural integration – both basic training and a full program of continuing education for practitioners of the somatic arts.