ABOUT THE METHOD
The
Feldenkrais Method is a form of somatic education. It uses movement and
self-awareness to improve our ability to move with freedom and ease in
everyday
life.
Each
person has the ability to
organically learn and develop throughout life. Just like a child learns
to ride
a bike, we can automatically learn our optimum poise, coordination and
movement. The Feldenkrais Method facilitates this learning. Gentle
movement exercises
are used to help us learn to use our bodies in a more flexible and
efficient
way. Through experiencing these movements we become more aware of our
body, its
habits and limitations, and we discover new possibilities for moving
with
greater ease.
The
Feldenkrais Method does not use
force or encourage stretching beyond ones existing capabilities. Rather
it
educates the body and nervous system, enabling them to self-correct
inefficient
and limiting patterns of movement. The Method can permanently improve
posture,
breathing, balance and co-ordination.
The
Method is taught in two forms:
Classes:
Awareness Through Movement
(ATM)
ATM classes are usually done in groups. Each class
consists
of verbally guided movement sequences built around a specific theme.
Most
lessons take place lying on the floor. Moving at your own pace and
range, in a
relaxing environment, you explore how you use your whole body and learn
to use
it in a more integrated way. This helps you discover new possibilities
of
movement, leading to regained effortlessness and ease and reduced
tension and
pain.
INDIVIDUALLY:
FUNCTIONAL INTEGRATION (FI)
In these hands-on sessions the practitioner can more
specifically meet the individual needs of each person. You are fully
clothed
and lying or sitting on a low table throughout. The practitioner uses
gentle
touch and clear movements that clarify habitual patterns and identify
sources
of stress and tension. This helps you discover new and improved modes
of
movement, action and thought. Even deeply engrained behavioural
patterns can be
transformed into new possibilities.