Feldenkrais: awareness through movement

What is the course about?

In this course you will explore Awareness Through Movement (ATM) classes, which are based on slow and mindful movements. You will learn how to become more aware of how you move, and how to focus your attention on one thing at the time. Bringing more awareness to your own habitual movement patterns can help you to discover new movement possibilities, resulting in more comfort, mobility, better quality of movement and coordination in work, performance or daily life.

What will we cover?

We will cover some of the Feldenkrais principles and strategies, posture and skeletal organisation, muscular tension, balance and neuroplasticity. We will also look at functional movements like reaching, turning, sitting, standing or walking.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Recognise your own behavioural and movement habits.
- Discover new ways of moving.
- Identify ways to reduce tension.
- Improve your posture
- Participate in and explore sequences of mindful movements.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Everyone is welcome, no previous knowledge or experience is needed. However you should be able to get down on the floor and up again independently. If you have a disability or health concern, please contact the Health and Wellbeing department in advance. You should be able to follow verbal and written instructions.
If you have any health concerns, or have been affected by any of the conditions listed below, please consult with your health practitioner whether it is appropriate for you to take part in an exercise or movement workshop, and bring a referral letter from them to your tutor.
- Do you ever have pains in your chest?
- Do you have epilepsy?
- Do you have asthma?
- Are you pregnant?
- Have you had any joint replacement?
- Have you had any operations or injuries in the last year?
- Do you often feel faint or have spells of dizziness?
- Are you receiving medication for any condition?
- Do you have high blood pressure?
- Is there anything else we should know about your health?
- Do you have a bone or joint problem, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, back or knee problems?

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

This course is based on experiential learning and is verbally led. The tutor guides you through some slow and small movement sequences, inviting you to pay attention to the sensations in your body. The movements are explored at your own pace and comfort with regular mini-rests. Many of the movements will be done lying on the mat. There may be an opportunity for some pair work. The tutor may give some short presentations on relevant topics. Charlotte is a qualified teacher of the Feldenkrais Method - Awareness Through Movement classes. She has been teaching a variety of movement disciplines for over 10 years.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

The best thing to wear is comfortable and loose clothing. The movements are gentle so you need to make sure you will be warm enough for the duration of the workshop, as your body temperature may drop.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

The Feldenkrais Method can be used to enhance your performance in activities such as dance, drama, music, singing, Pilates, yoga, work and everyday life.