The Method
The Feldenkrais Method® is a unique approach to human movement, learning and change originally developed by Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais.
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When we are young we learn through experimentation and play, gradually discovering how to roll, crawl, balance and walk – in fact many of the skills we need. Through our lives we each develop our own unique way of being and of moving, our own unique behaviours. These patterns of movement are influenced by our upbringing and culture, as well as our as our injuries and illnesses.
Just like our own handwriting, the way we stand, sit, turn, bend is deeply embedded in our nervous system. We move without consciously thinking about each element of the action.
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Some of our habits serve us well. Some restrict us, and even cause us pain and discomfort. We use more effort than necessary, overuse some muscles and neglect others. These ingrained patterns become dysfunctional, stifling our potential.
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The Feldenkrais Method® respects the influence and centrality of the nervous system in shaping the patterns that define and sustain us as human beings. It provides exactly those environments under which awareness, learning and change can occur through movement and touch. The Feldenkrais Method® enables individuals to discover new possibilities of movement and posture.
The Founder
The Feldenkrais Method® was developed by Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais (1904-1984), an eminent mechanical engineer and physicist. A severe knee injury inspired him to learn more about human movement and neurophysiology. Determined to avoid surgery, he set about re-learning how to move with his injured knee.
He avidly studied anatomy, psychology, anthropology, bio-mechanics, system and learning theory and integrated this with his knowledge of martial arts. He regained his ability to move freely and without pain, and began sharing and teaching his insights. Over time he developed a unique way of working with people to help them attain or regain their potential
The Format
The method is taught in two different formats:
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Awareness Through Movement ® Classes where the Practitioner verbally guides students through movement sequences; and
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Functional Integration Lessons where the Practitioner touches and moves the student.
Both formats raise awareness and so enable the adoption of other patterns of moving.
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