(Re)Mind Your Body

'Functional Integration’ (F.I.) lessons enable you to make discoveries about how you move and so how you can change. As Feldenkrais said, 'If you know what you're doing, you can do what you want'...

In an FI lesson (not a 'treatment') the practitioner and the student (you're a student, not a patient) go on an interesting journey together to find out what you're doing and how you do it - and what other movements might be possible as well. You wear normal clothes (though it's a good idea to wear comfortable trousers and always socks). Movement ideas are usually introduced through touch, rather than verbally (as they are in the group lessons). As in the group lessons, you find yourself moving in new ways - though always within the range of comfort.

I will design each lesson around your particular movement habits and needs. You sit or lie on a low padded table, comfortably clothed, while I guide your movements through gentle touch, in order to hint at new functional motor patterns. There is no pain involved, as we go on a journey of discovery or re-discovery together. This can be enjoyable, illuminating, and can help you solve long-term niggles.

I will usually make suggestions for ways of working on your own, in order to help the new choices become a lasting part of your life. I am experienced in rehabilitating walking, standing, balancing and rotating in the elderly and post-replacement, and can point you or your relative to practices and resources which really work. Having danced professionally and taught/trained dancers for many years, I also specialise in helping dancers dance with maximum facility and minimum discomfort. Combine a holiday in Cumbria with a service for your dance practice! I can help you find delightful (and perhaps low-cost) accomodation for dancer and family.

Human beings have a tendency to acquire physical and mental habits of functioning that can become deeply ingrained. Some habits are useful – many are not. The Feldenkrais Method® can help you alter the habits that don’t serve you well. It works by providing new information to the neuromuscular system, enabling positive changes to your organisation and function. Based on Neurological, Physical, and Bio-Mechanical principles, it teaches you to move with greater ease and efficiency. The Feldenkrais Method is person-centred: each lesson is unique for the individual at that moment. As a result, it is beneficial in a wide variety of applications - from Childhood Development to Older Adults, Sport and Performance to Chronic Conditions, Injury Prevention to Rehabilitation. It may be useful for people of all ages, from babies and children through to senior citizens; for runners, walkers, cyclists, dancers, musicians, athletes or actors; for people whose work may involve repetitive tasks; for people interested in preventing or relieving stiffness, pain or strain; and for people living with difficulties such as Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, injury or learning difficulties.

Call for further information – booking needed

Virginia Taylor PhD(Re)mind Your Body 0797 796 1563