Feldenkrais is a method that can help your body learn to move more easily.
If your body has been in the habit of moving in an inefficient way a couple of things can happen:
© International Feldenkrais® Federation Archive, Modern Photos, Robert Golden
Pain: you might be feeling stiffness or pain because of years of moving inefficiently, and be searching for ways to relieve the stiffness or understand the pain.
Efficiency: your body might not work as efficiently as it could – if you are a musician or sportsperson, this could be stopping you from reaching a higher level of performance.
So how does Feldenkrais work?
Feldenkrais works on the very simple principle that your body is a very good learner when it comes to movement. Pay attention to how your body is moving, and you can learn a lot about what is happening.
Show your body a better way to move and the body learns the new movement very quickly, replacing the old, less effective way of moving.
What does a Feldenkrais practitioner do?
A Feldenkrais practitioner is trained to help you gain greater awareness through movement. They may observe how you move and help your body learn new, better ways.
A Feldenkrais practitioner does not diagnose you or treat you. Instead they help you become aware of your movement, identify new choices and learn new ways of moving.
The process of becoming aware of your movement happens gradually. You will focus on sensations as you move:
- Are you comfortable?
- Is your movement easy and smooth?
- What is happening in different parts of your body?
Does Feldenkrais hurt? Do I need to be very fit?
The process of teaching your body new ways to move is very gentle.
Simple, small movements teach your body new ways of moving – your body rapidly learns and they become new habits.
Becoming aware of your own movements is also a very gentle process. Feldenkrais techniques may not require physical fitness or exertion.
What happens as a result of Feldenkrais?
Learning a new and easier way to move means your body can work a lot better.
- Pain Relief: If the way you move has been creating tension and stress in your body, moving differently can mean less pain and stiffness.
- Musical Performance: If the way you move has been restricting the way you play your musical instrument, you may find your musical performance improves.
- Sporting Achievement: If the way you move has been inefficient and your body learns to move more efficiently, your sporting performance may improve.
What more can you tell me?
This website provides information and resources to help you understand what the Feldenkrais Method is and how it can help you.
The site is run by Sarah, Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner. If you have any questions, you can sms for an appointment or get in touch in other ways.