What is the Feldenkrais Method®?
Everyone develops habits of movement. If the movements are adequate for daily life, the patterns remain unnoticed. But if the patterns are not adequate or if you are stressed through illness, injury or age, you may become stiff and uncomfortable, hold tensions or experience pain.
The Feldenkrais Method helps you to unlearn movement habits that are no longer useful. You effortlessly acquire new, better habits that help you to move more freely and restore your body’s optimum comfort and function. As you develop efficient ways of moving, stress is reduced, your posture and breathing improve, stiffness and pain drop away and the movements you do every day become easy and enjoyable.
Why the funny name?
The Feldenkrais Method (rhymes with Felden-rice) was developed by Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, an engineer, physicist and world-class Judo master. A serious knee injury led him to apply his knowledge of anatomy, physics and psychology along with scientific methodology to the study and improvement of human movement.
Since the Feldenkrais Method is an educational method that teaches you through movement, sessions are called “lessons” and the people who do the work are “practitioners” or “teachers.” Who Can Benefit from the Feldenkrais Method?
Are you finding that you can’t walk as far as you used to? Have you finished with Physical Therapy but have residual issues? Are you in constant pain? The Feldenkrais Method is beneficial for those experiencing chronic or acute pain as well as for healthy individuals interested in improving their posture and flexibility. People with neurological injuries also respond well to Feldenkrais ® lessons.
How do you prepare for the Feldenkrais Method®?
There’s typically no specific preparation required for a Feldenkrais Method session. You may wear comfortable clothing and come with an open mind ready to engage in gentle movement exploration.
Why is Feldenkrais Method® performed?
The Feldenkrais Method is performed to help individuals unlearn inefficient movement patterns, improve flexibility, reduce pain and tension, enhance posture and breathing, and promote overall well-being through mindful movement education.
What can you expect during the Feldenkrais Method®?
When you come for a one-on-one Feldenkrais lesson, you generally lie down on a comfortable table while the practitioner guides you with non-invasive touch, gentle movement and verbal cues. You remain fully clothed. Trained to have a very sensitive touch, the practitioner can feel how your skeleton is reacting and moving and can help you work out ways to move more easily. The practitioner may ask you to move in different ways such as tilting your knees or sliding your arm.
Read more about our Feldenkrais Practitioner, Kira Charles.
What is the followup and recovery like for the Feldenkrais Method®?
Follow-up after Feldenkrais Method sessions may involve incorporating newly learned movement patterns into daily life activities. Recovery is typically smooth, with individuals often experiencing increased comfort, mobility, and awareness of their body’s capabilities.
What are the potential risks for Feldenkrais Method®?
The Feldenkrais Method is generally considered safe and low-risk. However, as with any physical activity or therapy, there’s a potential risk of minor discomfort or exacerbation of existing symptoms. It’s essential to communicate openly with your practitioner about any concerns or limitations.
Are there related procedures to Feldenkrais Method®?
Related procedures to the Feldenkrais Method include other movement-based therapies such as physical therapy, yoga, Pilates, Alexander Technique, and somatic movement practices. Each approach offers unique perspectives and techniques for enhancing movement and well-being.
