Feldenkrais Method

There is no doubt or debate about pathways and connections of the human brain to the body. While these connections and pathways can be damaged by injuries, tumors, and disease conditions, finding new pathways around the damage areas in order to treat disordered movements (such as in stroke), can lead to rehabilitation, coordination, and treatment. One particular therapeutic method that has been found to be useful in this area of therapy and treatment is Feldenkrais Method.

What is Feldenkrais Method?

Feldenkrais Method is a type of exercise therapy. Moshe Feldenkrais (1904-1984), a Russian-born physicist, judo expert, mechanical engineer and educator, devised and developed the therapy that bears his name. He suffered from serious knee injury and doctors told him about his low chance of recovery and of the possibility of his long-term confinement to a wheelchair. He started to develop his own therapeutic movement program and started teaching it to others.

What is Feldenkrais Method used for?

It is used in patients with orthopedic problems and to those with rheumatoid or problems with their joints, muscles and bones. It is also used to help ease stress and tension. The Feldenkrais Guild of North America has started using the method to autistic children and to those with multiple sclerosis. All in all, practitioners of Feldenkrais claim that the method improves not only the connection between the brain and the body, and in the improvement of musculoskeletal problems, because it also helps people with depression, anxiety, tension and fear.

How is it done?

Feldenkrais Method is based on the principles of physics and biomechanics. It uses gentle methods to increase flexibility and coordination. It is similar to yoga. However, unlike yoga, Feldenkrais is not particular about perfect or correct positions. The method focuses on more dexterous, painless and efficient body movements. The focus is in the connection between the mind and the body through the awareness and quality of movements, rather than predefined postures. The movements aim in increasing the ease and range of motion of joints by improving flexibility and coordination. Practitioners claim that if the movements are carried out with focus, the innate capacity of graceful movements are attained, and leads to treatment and rehabilitation.

Are there any side effects in Feldenkrais?

There are no known side effects in Feldenkrais. The gentle movements may not yet be indicated for those with intense pain, recent burns, and those with active infection or skin irritation. Postponement of the sessions until the condition subsides is advised.

Word of advice

Always look for a certified Feldenkrais practitioner if you plan to try the method.