The method
What is it about?
Somatic Education
The Feldenkrais method is a form of somatic education that focuses on learning through the body.
Neuroplasticity and sensory feedback
It operates on two main principles: neuroplasticity and sensory feedback, suggesting that the nervous system can change and adapt in response to novel stimuli and experiences and that understanding the body’s position, movements, and interactions with the environment depends on sensory feedback.
Learning process
Neuroplasticity translated to daily life is what we know as LEARNING. Learning through the body means increasing awareness of movement, position, and tension in the body, as well as exploring and differentiating nuances of intention in movement.
When we delve into the engagement or study of the body, we encounter the intricacies of learning habits, routines, behaviors, and approaches individuals use to acquire knowledge and skills. These habits are familiar in traditional educational settings such as schools and universities and extend to non-conventional practices like dance lessons and bodywork. The intention is to approach this study with curiosity and engage in self-research to understand better the connections between neuroplasticity, learning, and the complexities of bodily engagement.
Universal learning process
Whether someone is working on a basic, everyday movement like rolling in bed or aiming for a more complex physical feat such as a triple somersault, the underlying principles used to enhance movement are similar. This means that a common framework or principles within the Feldenkrais Method can be applied broadly to various movements and activities, making it a versatile and adaptable approach to improving overall physical function.
Distinguishing difference/change
The ability to discern changes and differences is fundamental to learning, and the Feldenkrais method effectively integrates this principle in group classes and individual sessions.
Variations:
The Feldenkrais Method introduces variations and alternatives to habitual patterns, engaging the nervous system in creating new motor programs and refining existing ones, leading to improved coordination and efficiency.
Closing the Gap between Intention and Achievement:
The students continually close the gap between what they want to do and what is achieved, which means the work suggests a progressive refinement of movement patterns as the individual gains greater awareness and control over their actions.
How?
Two types of work are possible with the Feldenkrais method; ‘Awareness Through Movement’ and ‘Functional Integration.’
Awareness Through Movement (ATM):
ATM classes are group classes focused on verbally guided sequences of different movement patterns. Participants are encouraged to explore movement slowly and attentively, with curiosity and a sense of play. This way, subtle sensations, variations in muscle tension, and changes in posture are revealed and inspire a deeper understanding of oneself and their potential for improvement.
An individual session in the Feldenkrais method is called Functional Integration (FI). It is designed to work on personal issues and difficulties that demand focused attention and an intimate process. Functional Integration is a hands-on work where your teacher will gently move you while you listen to your sensations, and feel where your habitual tensions interfere with your movement. You will be guided to a better and more efficient movement/posture, finding the easiest/lightest/most elegant way to move. Manipulations do not provoke any pain; they are pleasurable and relaxing and are done in postures like lying, sitting, or standing, as well as movement exercises.
Who is it for?
The Feldenkrais Method is adaptable and inclusive, making it suitable for people of all ages (from newborns to older adults), physical conditions, and varied interests.
It is highly recommended for you regardless of your situation and will be highly beneficial if you wish to;
- Treat, alleviate, and resolve all sorts of back pain.
- Deal with neurological problems such as MS, stroke, cerebral palsy, or Parkinson’s disease.
- Manage movement disorders like dystonia, ataxia, or spinal deformity like scoliosis.
- Recover from an injury, surgery, or other medical procedures.
- Cope as a parent of an infant, with developmental challenges.
- Deal with stress and anxiety.