The health benefits of the Feldenkrais method

Lifestyle
Eléonore de Maurissens
Reading time: 2 minutes
De gezondheidsvoordelen van de feldenkraismethode

The Feldenkrais method is aimed at improving self-awareness through conscious movement. At the foundation of this technique lies the discovery and learning of varied and alternative movement patterns. The goal of this method is to improve well-being, athletic performance, stress management, and much more.1


More and more people are practicing awareness techniques to get to know themselves and their bodies better and to increase their mental and physical well-being. Many techniques have already been developed and/or renewed. Just think of yoga, mindfulness, and the Feldenkrais method. All these techniques are known for reducing stress, strengthening self-awareness, improving posture and flexibility, and contributing to better health. Studies seem to show that the Feldenkrais method is good for the body and mind by increasing movement awareness.2

 

What is the Feldenkrais method?

The Feldenkrais method is a highly holistic approach to the body and is focused on learning through movement, in order to achieve greater autonomy of the body and the individual.2,3
The method explores both early developmental movements (for example, sitting or crawling, as in very young children) and more advanced movements (for example, handstands, which are only learned later).2,4

This method is divided into two practices:2,4

  • functional integration: generally, these are individual sessions where hands are primarily used;
  • awareness through movement: these are lessons given verbally in a group or exercises that you can do at home yourself.

In both approaches, the same principles of sensory exploration are applied by performing movements passively and/or actively.4 A session generally lasts between 40 and 60 minutes.

Thanks to the Feldenkrais method, we can get the best out of ourselves by becoming more aware of our bodies

What are the health benefits of an awareness technique through movement?

Although more research is still needed, several studies have already brought to light the health benefits of the Feldenkrais method2,4, and this in various areas:

  • mental health and psychological well-being (relaxation, better self-image);
  • physical health (healthy aging, coping with pain);
  • better athletic performance (flexibility, etc.);
  • better singing.

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Scientific references

  1. Berland R., et al., Effects of the Feldenkrais Method as a Physiotherapy Tool: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2022; 19(21):13734. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192113734
  2. Paparo, S. A. (2022). Singing with awareness: A phenomenology of singers’ experience with the Feldenkrais Method. Research Studies in Music Education, 44(3), 541-553. https://doi.org/10.1177/1321103X211020642
  3. Belgian Feldenkrais Association vzw. https://www.feldenkraisbelgium.be/nl
  4. Hillier S. and Worley A., The Effectiveness of the Feldenkrais Method: A Systematic Review of the Evidence. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 2015, Article ID 752160, 12 pages. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/752160

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