Tensegrity, Biotensegrity, and Structural Integration

Of the many models we could use for looking at and understanding the human body in structural integration, tensegrity and biotensegrity offer us perhaps the most unique and valuable insights into how it all works and how to best care for and heal it.

Tensegrity and biotensegrity describe a concept of tensional integrity in various systems, structures, and nature (and specifically in human bodies). The concept, originally developed by Kenneth Nelson and Buckmister Fuller, means that the integrity of the systems depends on and is organized around the tensional framework or network of any system. These concepts have been further developed and articulated by Dr. Stephen M. Levin, M.D., modeled by Tom Flemons of Intension Designs, and suggested as a model for cellular structure by Dr. Donald Ingber, PhD. in Scientific American.

Tom Myers, a fellow structural integration specialist, in a youtube video below describes how analyzing a body using tensegrity is far superior to using other models such as a compressional integrity concept to describe the complexity of human movement, balance, and structure.

As Tom says in the video Dr. Ida Rolf of Rolfing fame would say that where you think a problem is probably isn’t necessarily it, and a biotensegrity model makes that infinitely clear. A difficulty or pain in the right side of the neck could originate in the right foot, the left hip, or somewhere else, and that is where it needs to be addressed for best results and longevity.

Since my training is Structural Integration some thirty five years ago I’ve been applying the principles of tensegrity and biotensegrity to help my clients make the best use of their bodies, whether they want to run a hundred miles, or get up on stage, or lead a team of executives in a boardroom, all the while looking, feeling, and performing their best.

 

 

 

 

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