The Feldenkrais Method, developed by Moshe Feldenkrais (physicist, 1904-1984), is a non-invasive movement-based method which helps people to achieve their full potential physically, mentally and emotionally. It can help with issues such as gross and fine motor skills, co-ordination, balance, stress, pain and reduction or lack of movement as well as improving well-being, self confidence and self esteem. It is personalised to meet the needs of each unique individual, whatever their current physical, mental and emotional situation or age.

Learning through Movement

As human beings, we move. We start moving in the womb, and after we are born we communicate and learn through movement. Movement is our first universal language. At birth, our movements are random, unrefined and unintentional. Gradually these random movements transform into actions that are purposeful, intentional, recognisable and meaningful. It might start with lifting our head, seeing an object with our eyes and finding through trial and error the co-ordination to reach with a hand to grasp that object. Eventually this leads to developing the abilities to roll, crawl, sit, stand, walk, run and skip. Cognitive skills are gradually learnt, communication through speech develops, thinking develops and eventually skills such as reading and writing become possible. Children learn by exploring and are motivated through curiosity.

This learning through movement as an infant and child brings about the abilities to shift weight, balance, co-ordinate, differentiate and orientate where you are in space. These abilities are necessary throughout life.

Sometimes a person’s skills and abilities relating to weight shifting, balance, coordination and orientation are not as developed as they could be, or have regressed due to a more sedentary lifestyle, a more screen based environment, injury, a neurological issue or ageing. Children and adults may have difficulties which manifest in different ways: poor self image, low self confidence, difficulty with certain areas of gross or fine motor control, difficulties with attention, focusing, with following instructions, with speaking, reading or writing, difficulties with controlling emotions or coping in social situations.

Current scientific research in the field of Neuroplasticity is showing that the brain is able to change and reorganise itself by forming new, or more differentiated, neural connections. It does this through the medium of movement: most importantly becoming aware of how you are moving, variation within movement and differentiation of movement.

The Feldenkrais Method is about learning how to learn effectively without endless repetition. Numerous methods develop fitness, muscle strength or provide relief from pain – at least temporarily. However, a marathon runner with stamina and strong muscles will not be able to run fast if they have a stiff chest that prevents them from breathing effectively. Massage may relieve your back pain temporarily but until you have learnt to sit on your chair in such a way that no muscles are stressed the pain will return.

For lasting benefits you need to learn more efficient ways of moving, and this is what Feldenkrais teaches. By going back to the basics areas of difficulty can be addressed.

Feldenkrais is taught in two ways: Group lessons known as Awareness Through Movement (ATM), and individual lessons called Functional Integration (FI).

Who benefits?

Everyone benefits from the Feldenkrais Method regardless of age, ability and health.

Many healthy people come for pure enjoyment. They benefit from:

• A feeling of relaxation and well-being
• Renewed energy
• Improved posture and coordination
• Improved stamina
• Improved confidence

Feldenkrais helps people who have:

• Repetitive strain injuries
• Musculoskeletal difficulties:
  • Chronic or occasional back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Shoulder tension
  • Painful knees
• Stress
• Headaches and migraines
• Neurological and developmental disorders like:
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Down’s Syndrome
• Dyslexia
• Learning difficulties
• Insomnia

Feldenkrais benefits those in rehabilitation after:

• Accidents
• Strokes
• Encephalitis
• Meningitis

Feldenkrais is of great value in performance optimisation:

• Improved coordination and breathing
• Sports people
• Musicians