Feldenkrais®
A Somatic approach to Life
The Feldenkrais Method is a neuromuscular form of re-education.
Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais (1904-1984) developed this sophisticated learning system which uses self-awareness and movement to produce neuromuscular changes noted to improve human conditions in the mind and body.
The Feldenkrais Method is highly regarded as an enjoyable sensory-motor approach to learning and is based upon the evolutionary development of the human nervous system and the innate capacity of the human brain to learn.
The Feldenkrais Method consists of two structural approaches, one is a group class called Awareness Through Movement which is slowly paced and verbally guided while the second is Functional Integration, a private session with a certified practitioner who will use the gentle hands-on technique to help integrate new movement connections.
Awareness Through Movement®
In the meditative atmosphere of an ATM lesson, you will be verbally guided through a sequence of gentle movements intended to help develop greater sensitivity to how you move, sense, feel, and think. The lessons can be done in comfortable clothing while lying on the ground upon a yoga mat, sitting in a chair, or even standing.
Although you will be moving, this method is not a progression of technique but rather each lesson provides an opportunity to quietly listen to your body and observe your movement reactions and actions.
During an ATM class, we explore movement so you can improve your daily function and feel better in your body. We question how you can move with less effort, less stress, and with greater freedom. Because we examine your approach to movement – any lesson at any time can be used by people from all walks of life.
Functional Integration® (FI)
Functional Integration (FI) is the hands-on approach of the Feldenkrais Method and each session is personalized to meet the needs of the individual. The essence of the private work is steeped in the title of the approach. There is physical function that is limited and is most likely inhibiting your daily life as well as causing you pain. In each lesson the practitioner will create a conversation with body parts so they will work more efficiently as an integrated whole.
An FI is personally designed so the individual may let go of habitual holding patterns so new movement patterns can emerge.
First, I will help you to observe and recognize what you do as you move. Then, I will bring to your attention certain movement patterns that you are doing, consciously or unconsciously, that cause restriction. Next, I’ll offer you different movement patterns to feel and explore. Lastly, I’ll help to integrate these new movement patterns into your experience and will give you something specific to work with so learning continues and the movement integrates into your daily self-use.
Each FI session is done in comfortable clothing on a specific Feldenkrais Table that is similar to a massage table only it is wider and lower to the ground.