“Nothing is permanent about our behaviour patterns except our belief that they are so”
– Moshe Feldenkrais
I think that many of us will look back on 2022 as a time of great change and turbulence. It is increasingly important that we can find some sense of stability and control when outside events seem so uncertain. Personally, I am very grateful that I have some things that I can turn to in order to build my sense of resilience and inner calm one of those is my regular practice of self awareness through The Feldenkrais Method.
How can exploring physical movement help with anxiety? The Feldenkrais Method encourages self acceptance and the notion that change is possible. Although we cannot always change outside events, we can develop a mindset that helps deal with feelings of being overwhelmed. In every Feldenkrais class, you are encouraged to explore a simple pattern of movement, perhaps reaching with one arm or pushing with a foot in order to connect to the pelvis. Gradually, more variations are introduced and you have the chance to explore how your body can respond positively to new patterns and levels of complexity. As you progress through the session, you will discover how your whole body can be engaged, giving a sense of connectivity, grace and yes, power. Because we practice these movements without stress or a sense of competition, the nervous system is calmer and the mind refreshed.
At the end of a Feldenkrais class, you will feel more connected to yourself and you will have built some inner resources that can sustain you.
“In order to change our mode of action, we must change the image of ourselves that we carry within us.”
– Moshe Feldenkrais
If you would like to take part in a live Feldenkrais class, it’s not too late to book!
The Feldenkrais mini courses continue next week with the start of Restore Your Body: Jaw, Neck and Shoulders. In times of stress and anxiety, it is easy to develop unconscious habits of holding and clenching – particularly in the jaw and around the shoulders. This leads to discomfort, pain and restricted movement which in turn increases anxiety and stress. Break this circular habit by exploring a set of focussed Feldenkrais lessons designed to release tension and find better and more integrated ways of moving.
Each Restore Your Body course is for four weeks’ duration and follows a specific theme.
Here are the available dates for this year:
Restore Your Body 2: Jaw, Neck & Shoulders. 12th, 19th, 26th November & 3rd December 2022.
Restore Your Body 3: Balance & Coordination. 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th January 2023.
You can book one or all of these courses by clicking this link . All RYB classes are recorded and are available to attendees. If you can’t attend class in person, it is possible to purchase the audio recordings only.
Restore Your Body mini courses are £30 for the four weeks. Audio only recordings are £25
