This method (pronounced 'feld-in-kra-ice') was named after its originator Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, a physicist, judo expert and mechanical engineer. The Feldenkrais Method® is a form of somatic education. Students learning how to implement the method is essential for success. All of the learning is done from within, with the support of gentle movements and manipulations.

The method was derived from neurology, physiology and evolution theory. Root word "soma" means to experience the body from inside. This learning utilizes how the nervous system learns through the sensory motor systems (your muscles, senses and movement) and finds new ways of moving. Experience results when the senses come into contact with their objects and an impression is left on the mind/body. In our daily life sense perception through movement sends nerve impulses rapidly cascading into what we call thought, feeling or action. Each creates a movement, contraction or extension, into the muscular system. The feeling or thought does not exist without the physical action and vice a versa.

Extraordinary opportunity is given to humans unlike any other animal. Over time the body builds up learned responses. Patterns of a behavior become wired in to enhance skills of Homosapiens, far beyond what an anthropoid ape can do. However these patterns can become a so automatic they can start to imbalance and strain with little opportunity to become aware of where we went wrong. Ingeniously, Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais developed a method to break this vicious circle. We must use the basic quality of the supralimbic part of our brain, which is able to sense and abstract what is happening in our bodies. By reducing stimuli to a bare minimum, we reduce to the lowest value of any change in the muscular system and senses. Thus we increase sensitivity to its maximum and therefore are able to distinguish finer details that have escaped our notice.

For example imagine a colorblind person seeing only black and white learns the ability to see red and green. Improvement of flexibility, freedom of pain, and increase in balance are not the final benefits. Strength and flexibility of the skeleton and muscles change configurations, thus making profound change in the self-image and quality of direction of self.

"Mind and body is an inseparable whole. A brain without a body could not think; at least, the continuing of mental functions is assured by corresponding motor functions," Moshe Feldenkrais reminds us. When learning awareness from an experiential levels a deeper more concrete understanding of oneself to their life unfolds. Just as anatomy has helped to get an intimate knowledge of the working of the body, somatic sciences enable us to know ourselves more completely. No matter what age or condition, utilizing the human nature to learn, Feldenkrais® movement enhances awareness and infinite potential within

What are the methods?

Awareness Through Movement®, ATM®

Functional Integration®, FI®

1. Awareness Through Movement®, ATM® is movement lessons often done in groups. They are as easy as sliding your ATM bank card, but the results much bigger. The teacher verbally guides students through gentle movements to increase awareness of hidden patterns of action that may be limiting movements.

2. Functional Integration®, FI®, lesson is designed to meet more individual needs. Communication is done not just verbally but through gentle touch and motion. This hands-on lesson is custom tailored to fit the particular needs of the person.

The biggest difference is that client participation is essential, for it is our intention to teach you how you got where you are and what to do differently. Similar to other modalities with the body, touch is used, yet Feldenkrais touch is a tactile language; a type of communication through the body to the brain. The Feldenkrais® Method works with the nervous system, inclusive of mind and body. This integrative approach challenges the self and function of muscles and bones.

Catherine Rosasco Mitchell
808-885-7190
Big Island, Hawaii