FAQS

What is the Feldenkrais method of somatic education?

 The Feldenkrais Method® is a system for self-improvement. It is a form of “somatic education,” which means it uses movement and real-time awareness of your own body sensations to guide you toward the positive changes seek. 

It is based on decades of research in physics, neuroscience, biomechanics, learning theory, and human development to give you the tools to help yourself.

What can somatic education do for me?

somatic education offers a wide range of benefits, as diverse as the individuals who explore the Method. Whether you are seeking pain relief, dealing with conditions of the central nervous system (multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, stroke), or extending your abilities, improving skill, and enhancing creativity. There is something for everyone.

How are private sessions different from massage?

 is an approach that seeks to affect change by working with your nervous system. Your brain directs the nervous system and is in charge of your movement patterns, so if you want to change your movements you must literally change your mind. As new neural pathways are formed in your brain, you can safely regulate and coordinate your movements, organizing yourself for effective action in the world.

ShouId I take a private lesson before/instead of attending classes?

If you have a specific issue such as an injury, stiffness or condition it is important to do Functional Integration® first. This is an individual session, we ill work together to create the best results. FI is a comfortable non-invasive hands-on approach, guiding your system into smooth movement options while releasing pain. Not sure what you should do? Give us a call so we can decide together the best path to take within the method. 

I already perform at my best, what does this have to offer me?

There is always room for improvement. You can learn to do what you already do well, more easily, with less effort, so there is energy left over to go even further. Many of Feldenkrais’ biggest adherents are professionals who strive to be their best — Yehudi Menuhin, Martina Navratilova, Dame Judi Dench, to name a few. Weight lifters find the weights seem lighter, tennis players and golfers find their swing more effortless, runners go farther, and performing artists feel they can dance or play the night away.

I have severe pain and mobility issues, can I still participate?

Absolutely. The wonderful thing about the Feldenkrais Method® is that it is about exploring learning strategies. If you have difficulty with on side, you can work with the other side. If you can’t lie down, you can sit. And even if nothing moves, you can work with your imagination, creating new neural links that can improve your quality of life.

How is this different from yoga?

does not require you to be flexible, nor does it involve stretching or holding any positions. It also does not involve any practice to perfect positions. Instead of repeating and holding set poses as in yoga, in a Feldenkrais® class you explore gentle and innovative movements as you learn to become aware of habits that may be causing you movement difficulties, inefficiencies, or pain. Many yoga devotees explore the Feldenkrais Method as a way to achieve postures that previously eluded them or that caused discomfort.