Benefits of The Feldenkrais Method
The Feldenkrais Method was developed by Moshe Feldenkrais, a mechanical and electrical engineer, who devoted much of his life to studying the structure and function of the human body. He was intrigued by the relationship between development, education and movement.
His method incorporates principles of physics, physiology, psychology, learning theory and brain science. Out of these he built a set of exercises with a foundation of gentle movements designed to raise your awareness of your body in space. His exercises focus on easier more graceful movements to complete routine tasks.
The Feldenkrais Method surrounds letting go (or unlearning) old restrictions you’ve placed on how you move your body. The method teaches use of conscious thoughts to guide how you perform a physical activity.
Proponents of the Feldenkrais Method cite the following as some of the benefits it offers.
- safe and easy way to eliminate aches, pains and discomfort
- effects of the method are often obvious from the beginning
- faster recovery from injuries and safeguarding against old recurring injuries
- effortless posture as you sit, stand and walk with maximum skeletal support
- more restful and restorative sleep
- higher overall performance through the development of neurological linkages that allow you to take advantage of new sensory skills
- improved health and well-being
- greater clarity and focus in sensing, thinking and feeling
- improved balance with increased flexibility and better co-ordination
- ability to recognize and ease tensions in the body
Other Benefits of the Feldenkrais Method
The exercises involved in the method may be successfully performed by anyone, but are particularly beneficial to people with pain or other physical ailments. The elder persons may also find this method not as intimidating as other forms of exercise. The movements are slow and deliberate allowing for resting time in between. The method teaches how to self-monitor and control movements. This allows you to perform within a safe, easy range where brain is trained to perform at optimal levels and learning and improvement can take place.
Who Can Benefit From Learning The Feldenkrais Method?
The simple answer to that question is “everyone” – from babies and children to senior citizens. Anyone who is involved in repetitive tasks wants to prevent and relieve stiffness, pain and strain can get great benefit from the exercises. The list would include dancers, musicians, athletes and actors wishing to improve performance or persons living with movement difficulties resulting from conditions such as stroke and multiple sclerosis.
The Feldenkrais Method consists of hundreds of adaptable lessons and strategies. These are geared toward making our movements and life comfortable and meaningful.
“Life is movement, without movement there can be no life.”
– Moshe Feldenkrais