Johanna Rayman

MOVE
movimiento

“Without learning to know ourselves as intimately as we possibly can we limit our choice.
Life is not very sweet without freedom of choice.”

Individual Feldenkrais lessons are called Functional Integration®. Like the Awareness Through Movement® classes, individual lessons use slow movements with careful attention to the quality of how the movements are done. These lessons are usually done lying on a low table, or sometimes standing up or sitting on a chair. You remain fully clothed during an F.I. lesson. Each Functional Integration lesson is tailored to the interests and activities of the person.

These lessons are based on your own tactile experience as you move - the movements are often directed by the practitioner using gentle, non-invasive touch. Sometimes people are surprised by the big differences they notice in their sensations or their posture after the tiny, gentle movements that seemed to be doing “nothing.” Through the movements, you learn more about what your options are in movement and in life, expanding your "freedom of choice."

If you are taking an A.T.M. class, it can be helpful to try an F.I. lesson and learn more about what is really meant when the teacher describes a movement as “slow” “small” and “gentle.”

What helps make a successful F.I. lesson

-Wear comfortable clothes. Jeans or a skirt might inhibit your movement and are best to avoid if possible.

-Be honest about your experience with the practitioner. Describing your real experience is more important than having the “right” answer, or being polite.

-Plan to do “homework” after the lesson, bringing the theme of the lesson into your day-to-day life.

-Be prepared to play and engage your curiosity about yourself!