» What is Feldenkrais?

The Feldenkrais Method is an inventive and expansive method for developing human abilities through movement, and for enhancing the person’s awareness of himself and the manner of his actions. The method relates to the habits of movement that are rooted in us, and offers alternative patterns. Feldenkrais is suitable for anyone who wishes to improve his coordination and capabilities: sportsmen, artists and people who suffer from pains. The method is a direct, common and perceptible way of learning the possibilities for physical movement that are concealed in the human nervous system. The natural manner of learning is employed – the manner in which infants learn about themselves and their surroundings. The method promotes a realignment of the bones and muscles and as a result, leads to more naturally inspired movement of the human body.

There are two ways of learning the Feldenkrais method:

» Awareness Through Movement (ATM) – group lesson

In the course of the lesson the student experiences the nature of his motor habits by means of a series of movements, and acquires new skills. The series of movements are guided verbally by the Feldenkrais practitioner and are built in a continuous and pleasant manner based on the physical development of the infant and on the simplicity of human ability. As a result of the lesson, the student experiences a greater degree of freedom of action and thought, enhancing his awareness of himself and his surroundings. His daily actions will be more gentle, easy and efficient, and he thereby attains to a higher quality of life.

» Functional Integration (FI) – individual lesson

The lesson is guided by the Feldenkrais practitioner by means of slow, gentle touch and relates to the individual needs of the student. The practitioner communicates through easy movements with the neuromuscular system of the student, and awakens dormant patterns that are inherent in the ability of the student that have not become part of his daily physical repertoire. The student becomes aware of new forms of movement, and learns how to use them. This method of learning is suitable for all ages, and is especially useful for those attempting to overcome limitations brought on by stress, inappropriate use, accident or illness. Individual lessons are equally beneficial for people who wish to enhance their physical and mental performance.