Interview with Art Riggs - Certified Advanced Rolfer and Author of Deep Tissue Massage: A Visual Guide to Techniques

Apr 19, 2009 by Jim O'Hara

Certified Advanced Rolfer® Art Riggs teaches Deep Tissue Massage and Myofascial release in the US and internationally, and is the author of Deep Tissue Massage: A Visual Guide to Techniques and a seven volume accompanying DVD set.

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I recently looked at the revised edition of the book and I cannot tell you how much I love the photos. They indicate with clear arrows the direction of the massage therapist’s strokes on the client. This is something you don’t often see in books!

I met with Art a short time ago and asked him some questions.

Jim O'Hara: I suspect the term “deep tissue” means different things to different people. What does it mean to you?

Art Riggs: Basically, it is about working with clear intention on the layers of restriction—using very little lubrication so that you can grab and stretch tissues that are shortened, rather than just sliding over them.

You sink through superficial tissue until you feel restricted layers “pushing back,” and then work at an oblique angle to lengthen the muscles or fascia. You work very slowly to enable the release to happen naturally.

Jim O'Hara: Some massage therapists say they get tired easily because people are constantly asking for “deep tissue.”

Art Riggs: Usually fatigue is a result of working too fast and improper use of biomechanics—“muscling” instead of using core energy and gravity.

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Massage should be a cooperative effort; you are opening the door for the tissue to release, not trying to force things to happen by imposing your will.

Remember that pushing “harder” isn’t necessarily working deeper.

Jim O'Hara: Are there dangers to the client from giving them deep tissue work?

Art Riggs: Yes, it is crucial to always err on the side of caution. However, there is a huge difference between working cautiously and working with a tentative and unconfident touch. I find that most hesitation over safety issues is based upon a lack of knowledge of the anatomy and safety precautions.

If you are hesitant to work on an area or condition, research the contraindications, caveats and proper ways to work so you can work with confidence. It is less an issue of working in the wrong area, and more a question of knowing HOW to work.

Most all problems I see are a result of working too fast so that there isn’t proper time for the client to react or give feedback. The nervous system can only process so much information at a time and tissue needs time to relax.

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Jim O'Hara: Any suggestions for me if I sign up for an advanced deep tissue seminar?.

Art Riggs: You may have to let go of some old ways of working that conflict with new ways of working. Sometimes the most talented therapists who are used to feeling confident in their work become frustrated and hang on to the ways they are comfortable with.

Deep Tissue and Myofascial Release may challenge old paradigms. Have fun in learning; be patient and realize that the skills aren’t learned overnight.

Jim O'Hara: Any other suggestions?

Art Riggs: Hold your intention, yet let go of outcome.

A few more tips from Art Rigg’s book, “Deep Tissue Massage, A Visual Guide to Techniques.” (See Also his DVD series)

Never strain
Working deep is different from working hard
Work slowly; use little oil
Direct attention and intention to the layer of the body where you want to work
Let the body react and stabilize before moving on

Jim O’Hara
Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
Curriculum Coordinator, National Holistic Institute

Photographs by David Booth, from Deep Tissue Massage: A Visual Guide to Techniques, Revised Edition by Art Riggs, published by North Atlantic Books, copyright © 2007 by Art Riggs. Reprinted by permission of publisher.

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