What is Feldenkrais?

The Feldenkrais Method® incorporates two complementary practices: Awareness Through Movement® and Functional Integration®. It is the practice of learning through gentle movement.

Example of Feldenkrais/Functional IntegrationLearning new ways to move is an essential component in reducing difficulties associated with neurological, orthopedic, chronic pain, and stress-related conditions. Easier movement means greater comfort performing everyday activities at work or home. As you expand your awareness of how you think, sense, feel, and move, you realize that the possibilities for personal improvement are almost limitless.

The Feldenkrais Method is a form of somatic education that uses this gentle movement and directed attention to improve movement and enhance human functioning. Through this Method, you can increase your ease and range of motion, improve your flexibility and coordination, and rediscover your innate capacity for graceful, efficient movement. These improvements will often generalize to enhance functioning in other aspects of your life.

The Feldenkrais Method is based on principles of physics, biomechanics, and an empirical understanding of learning and human development. By expanding the self-image through movement sequences that bring attention to the parts of the self that are out of awareness, the Method enables you to include more of yourself in your functioning movements. Students become more aware of their habitual neuromuscular patterns and rigidities and expand options for new ways of moving. By increasing sensitivity the Feldenkrais Method assists you to live your life more fully, efficiently and comfortably.

Learn more in this 10-minute video from The Feldenkrais® Educational Foundation of North America and the FELDENKRAIS GUILD® of North America.