MOD056 – Feldenkrais Method

Definition

The Feldenkrais Method is a somatic educational approach that aims to improve movement and functional integration through awareness, exploration, and gentle movement exercises.

Explanation

Feldenkrais practitioners guide individuals through a series of movement lessons, known as Awareness Through Movement (ATM) or Functional Integration (FI), to increase body awareness, improve posture and movement efficiency, and reduce pain and tension. The method emphasizes the relationship between movement, perception, and learning to promote optimal functioning and well-being. Feldenkrais lessons often involve slow, mindful movements that encourage students to explore new movement patterns and discover more efficient ways of using their bodies[1].

Evidence to Efficacy

Research suggests that the Feldenkrais Method offers promising benefits for various health conditions and overall wellbeing. While more studies are needed, existing evidence indicates encouraging results:

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies examined the effects of the Feldenkrais Method as a physiotherapy tool. The researchers found that Feldenkrais interventions were effective in reducing pain and improving functional balance in patients with cervical, dorsal, or shoulder pain. The meta-analysis showed significant improvements in measures like the Timed Up-and-Go test for elderly participants.

Studies have shown particular promise for the Feldenkrais Method in addressing chronic pain conditions. A trial conducted at the University of Manchester found that Feldenkrais sessions led to significant reductions in pain intensity and improvements in quality of life for people with chronic low back pain. Participants reported feeling more aware of their movement patterns and better able to manage their pain.

For neurological conditions, research indicates potential benefits. A study published in the Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy explored the effects of Feldenkrais on balance and mobility in people with multiple sclerosis. The researchers reported improvements in functional balance, mobility, and perceived confidence in daily activities following a Feldenkrais programme.

The Feldenkrais Method has also shown promise for enhancing performance and preventing injuries in athletes and performers. A study from the University of Houston found that dancers who participated in Feldenkrais sessions demonstrated improved movement efficiency and reduced risk of injury.

While more rigorous research is needed, these studies suggest the Feldenkrais Method’s potential to support health and wellbeing across various domains. The holistic nature of Feldenkrais, addressing physical, cognitive and sensory aspects of movement, may contribute to its wide-ranging effects. As research continues, the Feldenkrais Method shows promise as a complementary approach to support overall health, manage chronic conditions, and enhance physical performance.

The Neuroscience

The Feldenkrais Method is a powerful approach to neuromuscular re-education that leverages the brain’s remarkable capacity for change, known as neuroplasticity. Here’s how this innovative method benefits the brain and body:

Neural Reorganisation: The Feldenkrais Method aims to reorganise connections between the brain and body, enhancing movement and positively influencing psychological well-being.

Sensorimotor Learning: By focusing on awareness of movement, the method engages the sensory and movement systems, facilitating learning and improvement in motor function.

Neuroplastic Change: The slow, mindful movements and novel patterns promote long-term neuroplastic changes in the brain, capitalising on the principle of “neurons that fire together, wire together.”

Whole-Brain Engagement: The method engages multiple brain regions simultaneously, including those responsible for movement, sensation, emotion, and cognition, promoting holistic brain function.

Enhanced Body Schema: Regular practice can lead to an expanded and more accurate internal representation of the body in the brain, contributing to improved coordination and movement efficiency.

Motor Learning Optimisation: The principles of slowness, variation, and attention in Feldenkrais lessons create optimal conditions for motor learning, allowing the nervous system to identify and integrate more efficient movement patterns.

By engaging in the Feldenkrais Method, you get a comprehensive strategy for enhancing the connection between mind and body through the power of neuroplasticity.

Governing Body

The Feldenkrais Guild UK is indeed the main professional body for Feldenkrais practitioners in the UK. It maintains a register of qualified practitioners, sets and oversees professional standards and a code of ethics, and provides continuing professional development while promoting the Feldenkrais Method to the public and healthcare professionals

The Feldenkrais Guild recognises training programmes accredited by the European Training Accreditation Board (EuroTAB). Which accredits Feldenkrais training programmes across Europe ensures consistency and quality in Feldenkrais education.

International Feldenkrais Federation (IFF): Connects Feldenkrais organisations worldwide and promotes global standards for the practice and teaching of the Feldenkrais Method

Feldenkrais Association of North America (FGNA): While based in North America, the FGNA provides resources and training materials that are used internationally, including in the UK

These organisations collectively ensure that Feldenkrais practice in the UK maintains high professional standards, ethical practices, and evidence-based approaches. They provide the necessary oversight, training accreditation, and continuing professional development opportunities for Feldenkrais practitioners.

What Good Looks Like

In the context of the Feldenkrais Method, an exceptional experience should encompass several key elements:

• You should feel a sense of safety and comfort from the moment you begin. The practitioner ought to create a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you feel at ease to explore movement without pressure or expectation.
• The session should be tailored to your unique needs and goals. Your Feldenkrais practitioner should guide you through gentle, exploratory movements that are specifically relevant to your situation, whether that’s addressing chronic pain, improving athletic performance, or enhancing overall wellbeing.
• You should be encouraged to move slowly and with awareness. The focus should be on the quality of your movement rather than achieving a particular position or stretch. You ought to feel that you have permission to explore and discover at your own pace.
• Throughout the session, you should experience a heightened sense of body awareness. You may notice subtle differences in how parts of your body feel or move, becoming more attuned to sensations you hadn’t previously recognised.
• The practitioner should guide you to pay attention to the process of movement rather than the end result. You should feel encouraged to explore various ways of moving, rather than trying to perform movements ‘correctly’.
• You ought to experience moments of insight or ‘aha’ experiences as you discover new, more efficient ways of moving. These realisations might relate to habitual patterns you hadn’t been aware of before.
• By the end of the session, you should feel a noticeable difference in your body. This might manifest as a sense of lightness, improved balance, easier breathing, or a general feeling of wellbeing.
• The experience should leave you feeling more connected to your body and more aware of your movement patterns. You may find that everyday activities feel easier or more pleasurable after the session.

Remember, a truly effective Feldenkrais session should be a journey of self-discovery, helping you to explore and understand your own body and movement in new and enlightening ways.

What to Ask a Practitioner

Key questions to ask when choosing an exceptional Feldenkrais practitioner:

How do you tailor your Feldenkrais approach to individual clients’ needs?

Desired answer: Look for a practitioner who emphasises personalisation, mentioning how they assess each client’s unique movement patterns, physical limitations, and goals. They should discuss adapting lessons based on what they observe during initial assessments and throughout the sessions.

Can you describe your process for identifying and addressing inefficient movement patterns?

Desired answer: An exceptional practitioner should be able to explain their method for observing and analysing movement, including techniques for identifying habitual patterns that may be causing discomfort or limiting function. They might mention how they use gentle hands-on guidance or verbal cues to help clients become aware of these patterns.

How do you integrate the principles of neuroplasticity into your Feldenkrais practice?

Desired answer: Look for a practitioner who demonstrates an understanding of how the nervous system learns and adapts. They should be able to explain how Feldenkrais lessons create opportunities for the brain to form new neural connections and movement patterns.

Can you explain how you help clients transfer the learning from Feldenkrais lessons to their daily activities?

Desired answer: The practitioner should emphasise the importance of applying Feldenkrais principles to everyday movements. They might discuss strategies for helping clients become more aware of their movements in daily life and how to apply the lessons learned in sessions to improve functional activities.

How do you address specific health concerns or chronic conditions through the Feldenkrais Method?

Desired answer: Look for a practitioner who can articulate how Feldenkrais can be beneficial for various health issues, while also acknowledging its limitations and the importance of working in conjunction with other healthcare professionals when necessary.

Key items that MUST be included in a Feldenkrais practitioner’s approach:

• A thorough initial assessment of the client’s movement patterns and functional abilities
• Clear explanation of the Feldenkrais Method and what to expect during sessions
• Emphasis on gentle, exploratory movements and increased body awareness
• Integration of both Awareness Through Movement (ATM) and Functional Integration (FI) techniques
• Focus on empowering clients to become more self-aware and self-reliant in their movement choices
• Provision of strategies for applying Feldenkrais principles in daily life

Remember, an exceptional Feldenkrais practitioner should make you feel heard, respected, and comfortable throughout the entire process, while demonstrating a deep understanding of both the theoretical principles and practical applications of the Feldenkrais Method.

Related Therapies

Physiotherapy (MOD207): A healthcare profession that assesses, diagnoses, treats, and works to prevent disease and disability through physical means, using evidence-based techniques to promote movement, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability.

Pilates (MOD130): A low-impact exercise system that focuses on strengthening the core, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall body awareness through controlled movements and breathing techniques, often using specialized equipment.

Alexander Technique (MOD009): An educational method focusing on unlearning harmful postural habits to improve movement, balance, and coordination.

Rolfing (MOD096): A form of bodywork that reorganises the connective tissues to realign and balance the body.

Craniosacral Therapy (MOD090): A gentle hands-on technique that releases tensions deep in the body to relieve pain and dysfunction.

Somatic Experiencing (MOD152): Focuses on releasing physical tension and trauma-related symptoms by regulating the nervous system’s response to stress and trauma.

Yoga (MOD182): A physical and spiritual practice that combines postures, breath control, and meditation. Yoga can complement Reiki by promoting physical flexibility and mental clarity, enhancing overall well-being.