The Feldenkrais Method® of somatic education explores the biological and cultural aspects of movement and posture, and how habitual ways of moving, feeling, and acting can constrain us to a small portion of our potential. Through our personal history, upbringing, culture, careers, injuries, illness etc., we each adopt patterns of physical and psychological behavior. These patterns are deeply embedded in our nervous system, and often become dysfunctional, creating unnecessary physical and psychological limitations.
The Feldenkrais Method® uses organic learning, movement, and sensing to free us from habitual patterns and allow for new patterns of thinking, moving, and feeling to emerge.
The Feldenkrais Method® was developed by Moshe Feldenkrais, D.Sc, (1904-1984), who synthesized insights from physics, motor development, bio-mechanics, psychology, and martial arts to develop a powerful, effective and practical application, demonstrating the inseparableness of thought, feeling, perception, and action.
The Method is applied in two strategies: Functional Integration and Awareness Through Movement. Functional Integration (FI) is a one-to-one approach for working with people. Learning, change and improvement are achieved through the use of specific skilled manipulation and passive movements, individualized for the student’s (clients) particular needs. Functional Integration is effective and widely recognized for its ability to address both minor aches and pains, to serious musculoskeletal and neurological problems to chronic tension and the developmental problems of children. Awareness Through Movement (ATM) lessons involve being verbally guided through a sequence of gentle movements and can be done in a variety of situations, including standing, lying on the floor, or sitting in a chair. ATM lessons are taught in a group or individually.
With the Feldenkrais Method®, you can learn to:
- Ease pain and chronic discomfort
- Improve posture, balance, flexibility and circulation
- Prevent injury
- Increase energy
- Reduce stress, tension and fatigue
- Improve concentration
The Feldenkrais Method® has helped:
- Musicians
- Athletes and fitness enthusiast
- Students
- Children with Special Needs
- Seniors
- Anyone seeking to improve their quality of life