What is the Feldenkrais Method?
The Feldenkrais Method is a mind/body educational system that uses movement and awareness to create awareness of the self. The Feldenkrais Method is based on the belief that consciously improving one’s range of motion and ability to move can improve overall physical, and well as mental and emotional, well-being. It was created by Dr. Moshé Feldenkrais (1904-1984), a physicist and judo practitioner of Eastern European descent. He wrote numerous books, including “Awareness Through Movement,” in which he asserted that good health is a matter of positive functioning
Can the Feldenkrais Method help people with cancer?
Yes. Although the code of ethics of the Feldenkrais Guild states that practitioners do not undertake to diagnose or treat illness, the method can be useful as a complementary therapy for people who want to improve their well-being and personal development. Benefits of the method include improvements in mental and physical balance and flexibility, reduction in movement-related pain, and better overall functioning.
The Feldenkrais Method alone is not a proven treatment for cancer, nor is it known to affect the biology of the disease or an individual’s outcome. It should not be used as a substitute for conventional care.
How does the Feldenkrais Method work?
The Feldenkrais Method is generally applied by trained practitioners in two forms:
1. Awareness through movement (ATM) lessons. In an ATM lesson, students are directed verbally through specific, slow movement sequences, either in a group setting or an individual session. More than a thousand ATM lessons have been developed for individualized use, depending on the needs of the participants. The intent is to help participants set aside habitual patterns, thereby enjoying freer, easier movement, and gaining more accurate and complete perception of the body and movement in general.
2. Functional integration. In this form, practitioners use their hands to guide the movement of the participants, while he or she lies on a padded table or floor. The movements are performed in a range and speed that is comfortable for the participant, allowing them to feel safe and secure, and to observe the movement in detail. Through precise touch and movement, participants learn how to reduce effort and strain and thus move more freely and easily.
Certified Feldenkrais Method practitioners receive formal training and certification at approved institutions in the United States and Europe. However, there is no formal government licensing procedure for Feldenkrais Method practitioners. It is always wise to ask practitioners about their credentials and training before working with them.
Are there any risks or complications associated with The Feldenkrais Method?
Generally, no. The Feldenkrais Method is regarded as being very safe, and its exercises are easy, gentle, and stress free. However, it is important to use common sense with regard to obvious sites of disease or injury. Discuss the use of The Feldenkrais Method with your physician and be sure to tell your practitioner about any physical or other issues you are currently experiencing.
How can I find a qualified Feldenkrais practitioner?
It is important to select a practitioner who is qualified, experienced, properly credentialed, and trustworthy. Click here to learn more about how to do this.