Frequently Asked Questions: The Feldenkrais Method
The Feldenkrais Method is an important part of the Moving Pieces approach. We offer regular classes, workshops and individual sessions throughout the year.
What is Feldenkrais?
The Feldenkrais Method was developed by Dr Moshe Feldenkrais, an engineer and physicist. A form of somatic education, the Feldenkrais method guides you either in a class context or individual session through a series of movements to recover an ability to move with ease and efficiency.
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 life on many levels.
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) Feldenkrais Practitioner(Guild UK) and performer.
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? (Functional Integration)
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 a face to face 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 is further information on the Feldenkrais Guild website.