FAQ
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SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY INITIAL FELDENKRAIS SESSION?
You do not need to bring or prepare anything for your sessions. You will usually lie, or sit, fully clothed on a low table as I support and move you, suggesting, encouraging and guiding you towards new ways of moving and organising yourself. At times, various props (pillows, rollers, supports etc,) are used in an effort to support your body configuration or to facilitate certain movements. The learning process progresses without the use of any invasive or forceful procedure. Your initial session will last about 1 hour 45 minutes, this includes a consultation where we discuss your issues and create a plan on how to best help you.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR FOR A SESSION?
Wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict your movements.
HOW DOES THE FELDENKRAIS METHOD WORK?
The Feldenkrais Method of somatic education offers a wide range of benefits, as diverse as the individuals who explore the Method. It works by tapping into the brain’s natural ability to change. This is called Neuroplasticity, also known as brain plasticity, and is the ability of neural networks in the brain to change through growth and reorganisation. It is when the brain is rewired to function in some way that differs from how it previously functioned. Feldenkrais uses these same principles. 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,
WHAT IS NEUROPLASTICITY?
Neuroplasticity, also known as brain plasticity, is the ability of neural networks in the brain to change through growth and reorganisation. It is when the brain is rewired to function in some way that differs from how it previously functioned. A good definition is “the ability of the nervous system to change its activity in response to intrinsic or extrinsic stimuli by reorganising its structure, functions, or connections. Neuroplasticity is what allows all learning to take place. As you learn better ways to move, you experience improvements in balance, breathing, coordination, flexibility, cognition, and outlook.
ARE FELDENKRAIS PRACTITIONERS REGULATED?
Yes, Feldenkrais practitioners must have completed a 4-year training programme and once graduated are eligible to become certified by the Feldenkrais Guild. They maintain that certification by fulfilling continuing education and professional practice requirements each year and by being fully insured. The Feldenkrais Method®, the Feldenkrais Guild®, Guild Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner ®, Functional Integration®, Awareness Through Movement®, GCFP®, are all registered trademarks and cannot be used unless the person has successfully graduated from the required training and is affiliated to the Feldenkrais Guild.
IS IT STRENUOUS?
No. Both Functional Integration sessions, which are taught one-on-one, and Awareness Through Movement session, which are taught in a group setting, are slow, gentle explorations of movement that can be done by anyone, at any level.
I HAVE A LOT OF PAIN, AND SEVERE MOVEMENT LIMITATIONS. CAN I STILL GET A FELDENKRAIS SESSION?
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.
I FEEL GREAT AND PERFORM AT MY PEAK. WHAT CAN FELDENKRAIS DO FOR 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.
ARE THE INDIVIDUAL SESSIONS LIKE A MASSAGE SESSION?
No, massage involves soft tissue manipulation. Massage therapists work with muscles and soft tissue. The Feldenkrais Method 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, organising yourself for effective action in the world.
ARE THE GROUP SESSIONS LIKE YOGA?
No, unlike Yoga, the Feldenkrais Method 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.
HOW CAN I START WORKING WITH YOU?
That’s easy, just get in touch in any way that you prefer. You can call, text, or email, and we will arrange an appointment that is convenient for you. I look forward to hearing from you.