The Good Health Guide

by Victoria Worsley
Developed by Moshe Feldenkrais (1904-84), an eminent physicist who also helped introduce Judo to Europe, The Feldenkrais Method is beginning to find its place as one of the most effective methods in the field of movement and body/mind or ’somatic’ learning.  Already well established in Germany, Israel and the US, it has become best known in areas of the dance, music and performing worlds in the UK.  However, its extraordinary possibilities are starting to be recognised far more widely now.

The method works by helping you become aware of what you actually do.  For example, if a friend sees you coming down the road, they will recognise you from your walk before they can see your face: everyone’s walk is unique - like their handwriting.  Interlace your fingers,  And then try interlacing them the other way, with the other thumb on top.  How does it feel?

Moshe Feldenkrais created thousands of clear, accessible movement classes involving gentle movements, carefully crafted to help the participant explore their own particular habits in movement and ‘posture’.  Based on sound neurological principles, the classes help the participant become aware of their own patterns and in the process open up ‘new’ possibilities so they can do what they want in life more easily, comfortably, efficiently, gracefully - with less effort, pain and strain.

‘When you know what you do, you can do what you want.’ Moshe Feldenkrais

Victoria Worsley runs a regular Tuesday evening Feldenkrais class at the Haelan Centre in Crouch End, 7.45-9.00pm.  She can be contacted on 020 8340 7088 or at jadetc@btinternet.com.