The Feldenkrais Method

The Feldenkrais Method is a theory and practice of movement developed by the distinguished Israeli scientist and educator, Moshe Feldenkrais. Over a period spanning 40 years, Feldenkrais developed an ingenious method for effective neuromuscular reeducation. The method focuses on the positive integration of the mind and body which enables people to live more comfortable and rewarding lives.

After suffering a serious knee injury in the 1940s, Dr. Feldenkrais was faced with a 50% chance for recovery and the possibility of being confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. Undaunted, he began exploring new relationships between the mind and body to improve physical movement and function.

In the beginning, Feldenkrais spent a long time studying the way he moved his body, and developed a number of theories on physical movement. He noted that we fall into habitual ways of moving our bodies that are detrimental. Because of this, we end up using excess energy, neglecting some parts of our bodies while overusing others. Feldenkrais explained that we fall into these ways of moving because of injuries, the dominance of one hand or the other and because our movement is mostly unconscious.e or the other, and because our movement is mostly unconscious.

The Feldenkrais Method Awareness Through Movement

Awareness Through Movement (ATM) consists of verbally directed, gentle exercise lessons. The lessons directly engage our natural intelligence in a gentle and pleasurable way.  ATM accesses the sensory motor processes of the brain and involves attention, perception, imagination and cognition. There are hundreds of lessons, addressing every joint and muscle group in the body and every human function.

The Feldenkrais Method Functional Integration

Functional Integration (FI) is a one-to-one approach to working with people. Learning, change and improvement are achieved through the use of specific skilled manipulation and passive movement. Functional Integration is painless, effective and widely recognized for its ability to successfully address serious muscular-skeletal and neurological problems.

More information on the Feldenkrais method can be found on the Feldenkrais Institute website: