Anatomy Trains Structural Integration
The foundation of my structural bodywork practice
What is Anatomy Trains Structural Integration?
Anatomy Trains Structural Integration (ATSI) is a hands-on bodywork method that reorganizes the fascia (connective tissue) to improve posture, movement, and overall body function. It's based on the Anatomy Trains myofascial meridians map developed by Tom Myers, which describes how fascia connects throughout the body in continuous lines of tension.
Tom Myers is a pioneer in the field of structural integration and myofascial anatomy. His work mapping the myofascial meridians has transformed how we understand and work with the body's fascial system. His book, Anatomy Trains: Myofascial Meridians for Manual Therapists and Movement Professionals, is considered essential reading in bodywork and movement education.
ATSI is not massage. Massage works with muscles for relaxation and circulation. Structural Integration works with fascia to reorganize your body's structure. It's systematic, progressive, and focused on lasting change, not temporary relief.
ATSI certification is the foundation of everything I do with hands-on structural work.
The Anatomy Trains Map
Tom Myers' groundbreaking Anatomy Trains map describes 12 myofascial meridians (continuous lines of fascia) running through the body. Here are the five primary lines we work with in the first four sessions:
Superficial Back Line
Plantar surface of foot → back of legs → spine → skull. Creates upright posture and posterior support.
Superficial Front Line
Top of foot → front of legs → abdomen → chest. Provides anterior support and counterbalances the Back Line.
Lateral Line
Sides of feet → lateral legs → hips → ribs. Creates side-to-side balance and lateral stability.
Spiral Line
Wraps around the body in a double helix. Creates and controls rotational movements and spinal stability.
Deep Front Line
Arch of foot → deep legs → pelvic floor → core → neck. The body's deep core support system.
(Plus the Arm Lines and Functional Lines)
The ATSI 12-Series
The complete ATSI protocol is a 12-session series that systematically works through your entire structure:
Sessions 1-4: The Sleeve (Superficial Fascia)
Opening and balancing the superficial fascial layers.
- • Session 1: Front line
- • Session 2: Back line
- • Session 3: Lateral line
- • Session 4: Spiral line
Sessions 5-8: The Core (Deep Fascia)
Working with deeper structures and establishing core support.
- • Session 5: Below the waist
- • Session 6: Above the waist
- • Session 7: Back side of the body
- • Session 8: Head and neck
Sessions 9-12: Integration
Bringing everything together and refining the work.
- • Session 9: Integration below the waist
- • Session 10: Integration above the waist
- • Session 11: Arms
- • Session 12: Full body integration and closure
What ATSI Certification Means
Extensive training: ATSI certification requires over 640 hours of training, including anatomy, hands-on technique, assessment, and supervised practice. This isn't a weekend certification. With additional anatomy and physiology coursework, I have over 750 hours of education in structural integration and bodywork.
Deep anatomical knowledge: Understanding fascia, myofascial connections, biomechanics, and how the body organizes itself in gravity. This knowledge informs every session.
Advanced manual skills: ATSI technique requires precision, sensitivity, and the ability to work with different tissue layers at appropriate depths. It's skilled manual therapy.
Systematic approach: Not just "working where it hurts." Understanding how to assess the whole structure and create a strategic plan for reorganization.
Continuing education: ATSI practitioners are required to continue learning and stay current with new research and techniques.
How ATSI Helps You
Improved Posture and Alignment
ATSI reorganizes your structure so you naturally stand and move with better alignment. Not "holding yourself up straight" but your body actually being better organized.
Chronic Pain Relief
Many chronic pain issues come from structural imbalances and fascial restrictions. ATSI addresses the underlying patterns, not just the symptoms.
Better Movement Quality
When your structure is better organized, you move more efficiently. Less compensation. Less effort. Better range of motion.
Athletic Performance
Better structure = better movement = better performance. Many athletes use Structural Integration to improve efficiency and reduce injury risk.
Lasting Change
ATSI creates structural change in your fascial system. This isn't temporary relief. Most people maintain results for years. Your body learns a new organization.
Beyond the Certification
My ATSI certification is the foundation, but I've continued learning:
- • Anatomy Trains Teacher in Training: I've had the privilege of assisting and co-teaching Anatomy Trains courses with Tom Myers himself, deepening my understanding and ability to explain the work.
- • Combining with movement education: Structural work creates capacity. Movement education teaches you how to use that capacity. The combination is more powerful than either alone.
- • Adapting to individual needs: Not everyone needs the full 12-Series. I can adapt the work to your specific goals and limitations.
The ATSI Difference
Anatomy Trains Structural Integration is one of the most thorough and anatomically-informed approaches to Structural Integration available. The certification ensures I have the knowledge, skills, and systematic approach to create real, lasting change in your body's structure and function.
Learn more about the Anatomy Trains approach and Tom Myers' work at AnatomyTrains.com.