The Feldenkrais Method® in Orange County

What is The Feldenkrais Method® in Orange County?

The Feldenkrais Method® in Orange County is named after its originator, Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, D.Sc. (1904-1984). A physicist, judo expert, mechanical engineer, and educator, Feldenkrais experienced a serious knee injury that posed a significant threat to his recovery. Initially, the doctors recommended surgery, suggesting that without it, he might never walk again. However, Feldenkrais disagreed with their prognosis and rejected the conventional treatments available to him, seeking an alternative path to recovery.

He lay in bed and actively applied his knowledge of Engineering, Physics, and Judo. As a result, he learned how to move without pain and tension. Consequently, he gained flexibility and improved his functional movement. These insights ultimately led him to discover The Feldenkrais Method®, prompting him to begin teaching it. The Feldenkrais Method® incorporates biomechanics, human physiology, and emphasizes the connection between the mind and body.

What We Treat with The Feldenkrais Method® in Orange County?

Throughout our lives, we develop habits of movement and posture. While some of these habits continue to serve us well, others do not, leading to discomfort and making simple activities unpleasant and painful. Consequently, our limitations often stem from the unconscious habits we practice every day.

One of our primary goals at Focus On Health is to improve functional movement for our patients. We empower individuals to learn and create positive changes, transforming the impossible into the possible.

We use The Feldenkrais Method® as an educational treatment that enhances flexibility, coordination, and overall movement. This method focuses on your personal movement habits, helping you discover how to move with less strain, fewer injuries, and greater efficiency. Notably, with The Feldenkrais Method®, the principle of “Less is More” comes into play, opening a gateway to health and well-being.

Furthermore, many patients arrive at our clinic with a variety of health issues. While we offer The Feldenkrais Method®, we also utilize a range of treatment methods, which contributes to the uniqueness of Focus On Health. Our professionals can seamlessly shift between methods during treatment, optimizing results as necessary.

What is Functional Integration with The Feldenkrais Method®?

The Feldenkrais Method® offers two variations, both aimed at improving posture, body awareness, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Patients actively rediscover gracefulness, efficiency, and ease of movement through these methods.

In our One-On-One sessions, known as Functional Integration (FI), the therapist works with the patient who remains clothed. Typically, patients either lie on a table or assume a seated or standing position. We strategically use props such as foam pads, pillows, rollers, towels, or blankets to support their posture and enhance the experience. Through gentle touch and guided movements, the therapist crafts personalized lessons that effectively improve movement and flexibility..

What is Aware Through Movement (ATM) Classes with The Feldenkrais Method®?

The second variation of The Feldenkrais Method® focuses on improving posture, body awareness, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Both variations aim to help patients rediscover gracefulness, efficiency, and ease in their movements.

In Awareness Through Movement classes (ATM), a teacher verbally guides clients through a series of movements while they sit, lie on the floor, or stand. If a client cannot get to the floor, we accommodate them by providing a low Feldenkrais table. Each lesson lasts 55 minutes and features easy movements that gradually progress to more complex ones.

Throughout the lessons, the emphasis is on learning which movements work best while clients notice positive changes. These include ordinary movements like reaching, standing, and looking behind oneself. Additionally, some movements involve abstract explorations of joint, muscle, and postural dynamics. Importantly, there are hundreds of ATM lessons available, ranging from simple to complex.

The Benefits of The Feldenkrais Method®

The Feldenkrais Method® actively engages patients in neuromuscular re-education within the realm of physical therapy. Importantly, some insurance companies recognize The Feldenkrais Method® as a valid treatment approach. Many stroke patients and individuals with neurological injuries have successfully benefited from this method.

Moreover, patients who struggle with poor movement habits and pain find the technique particularly helpful. Through various exercises, the method re-educates the nervous system, enabling individuals to develop new ways of moving. Additionally, it enhances mood and boosts overall feelings of well-being.

After experiencing The Feldenkrais Method®, patients report feeling an ease and grace in their movements. Consequently, they walk with greater ease and fluidity. As a result, they enjoy more expansive breathing and notice enhanced flexibility, coordination, and balance. Additionally, many experience an increase in their energy levels and find themselves maintaining effortless and good posture. Moreover, they often find relief from aches and pains, alongside reduced muscle tension and anxiety. This method also refines their athletic and artistic performance and contributes to a more restful sleep. Furthermore, it aids in injury prevention and provides strategies to enhance movement in any activity they engage in.

Next Steps to getting The Feldenkrais Method® in Orange County

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