Frequently Asked Questions: The Feldenkrais Method
The Feldenkrais Method is an important part of the Moving Pieces approach, and we offer regular classes and workshops throughout the year. Our classes are popular and we are grateful that we can offer them, especially when we are able to see the improvements class members have made to their physical and mental health.
What is Feldenkrais?
The Feldenkrais Method was developed by Dr Moshe Feldenkrais, an engineer and physicist. A form of somatic education, the Feldenkrais method is where an individual is guided through a series of movements, and invited to see which can be performed with ease.
Following a serious knee injury in the 1940s, Dr Feldenkrais applied his knowledge of physics and engineering to the human body, culminating in a valuable tool that supported ease of movement, both physically and emotionally. Dr Feldenkrais was revolutionary in his understanding that movement and awareness could help encourage and achieve positive changes to the body.
Who teaches Feldenkrais at Moving Pieces?
Teaching Feldenkrais classes at Moving Pieces is our director, Charlie Blowers, an Arts Psychotherapist/Clinical Supervisor (UKCP), Yoga Therapist (Minded Institute) and Feldenkrais Practitioner registered with the Feldenkrais Guild UK. Charlie completed her training in April 2020 and Feldenkrais principles are strongly integrated into the Moving Pieces approach.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of Feldenkrais are extensive, and include:
Easier and improved breathing
Relief from tension and muscular pain
Greater relaxation and well-being
Improved performance in physical activities, dance, music and drama
Greater ease in everyday activities
Increased vitality
What is hands on work?
Individual Feldenkrais lessons may involve being guided through a movement sequence if sessions are via Zoom or for this to be facilitated by hands on work in an in person session. The latter involves lying fully clothed on a low table and Charlie gently touching and moving different parts of your body to support you to notice the habits and preferences you have, in particular which ones seem helpful to you and others it may be useful to let go of and explore other possibilities. It is also an opportunity to notice the relationship between different parts of the body in any particular movement and how to experience ease of movement by distributing effort throughout the body. There's some useful information on the Feldenkrais Guild website.
Do I need to have any other movement experience?
The sessions are suitable for everyone, from complete beginners to experienced movers.
Can I attend sessions if I am injured?
Yes, Charlie will work with you to ensure that every session is catered for your individual needs. It is not advised to attend however with acute symptoms relating to a recent injury.
Can I attend sessions if I am taking medication?
Yes, this is fine, although do mention it in the initial part of the session.
Are the sessions confidential?
All the sessions are confidential.
How many sessions will I need?
Sessions can be booked as and when needed. Charlie may recommend attending a series of sessions if considered necessary to facilitate lasting improvement.
How long will it take to notice a difference?
The sessions are based on learning ways to recover health, a process that is very individual. Some people find an immediate improvement, whereas for others it is a more gradual integration of tools and strategies explored in each session.
Is it like yoga or Pilates?
The sessions are mainly based on practice that relates to the Feldenkrais method, body psychotherapy and yoga therapy. Some of the principles will be resonant with yoga and Pilates practice but you may find some of the principles are quite different.
Will social distancing be adhered to?
Yes. Artworks, where the face to face sessions are offered has a clear Covid-19 policy. In person sessions can be offered and observe social distancing, although initially sessions will be offered via Zoom. Other measures including use of hand sanitiser and wearing a mask will also be adhered to.
Will I get resources to take away?
Yes. An important part of the session is to identify ongoing resources considered useful to practice.
Is it good for physical health as well as mental health?
Yes, the sessions work with the intimate link in our mind/body relationship.