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What does the Feldenkrais Method Offer?
As human beings, all movement (except for a few reflex responses) is learned. For example, we do not come into this world knowing the most efficient way to bring our hand to our mouth or how to walk--we learn by trial and error and when we are satisfied with our ability to perform a skill, we move on to learn something new. These learned movements begin under our conscious control but as they are repeated they become habits and in time we often lose our ability to move in any other way than our habitual patterns. If these movements are well organized and we are able to function with ease we generally don't pay much attention to how our body operates, it simply allows us to get on with life. However when our movements become impeded and we have restrictions and/or pain, we are no longer able to function without considering whether the body will allow us to do the activities that we have always enjoyed. Movement can become a burden to be endured and our options for activities may become more and more restricted. To overcome limitations, learning begins with our relationship to our body and it needs to be explored and understood before moving out into the world to greater learning. The Feldenkrais Method uses principles of developmental movement, systems theory and current brain research, to help people improve their ability to function in the world. This unique approach utilizes the intelligence of the human nervous system and its ability to learn. Through the use of touch and movement, the nervous system is gently guided using sensory feedback to feel and recognize habitual patterns of movement that may restrict or prohibit new learning. As we become aware of our habits and are shown new possibilities, we now have choices and options of movement that will allow us to move in ways that we have not experienced since childhood. The Feldenkrais Method uses two different but related techniques to increase sensory awareness and promote kinesthetic learning. Functional Integration Lessons® are hands-on one-on-one sessions tailor-made to your needs where the practitioner gently guides your body through a series of movements to improve your ability to function and Awareness Through Movement Lessons® which are generally done in a group with the practitioner verbally guiding the class through movements to improve a particular function.
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