Feldenkrais: optimising mobility in the chest, upper back, neck and shoulders

What is the course about?

In this course you will learn how to develop more ease in your neck, upper back and chest. By bringing more attention to your habitual patterns of movements you can discover new movement choices resulting in better self-organisation, flexibility, coordination, balance, breathing and wellbeing.

What will we cover?

In this workshop you will explore the dynamic relationship between your neck, upper back and chest to make you feel more integrated. We will include basic anatomy, functional movements and neuroplasticity.

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

- Identify ways to ease tension in the neck, upper back and chest
- Discover new ways of moving and increase flexibility
- Recognise your own behavioural and movement
- Participate in slow movement sequences.

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 Lifestyle 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 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. You may need to get medical clearance (from the college or from your health practitioner) first, and if you have not, or it is not appropriate, then please do not enrol in this movement workshop.
- 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 practical and involves guided movements and meditations, short presentations and video clips, interactive games, self observation, inquiry, discussions and small group or pair work. Suggestions for home practice will be given but there is no pressure to participate.
• Charlotte is a Feldenkrais Practitioner (student teacher).
• Charlotte is a qualified Feldenkrais: Awareness Through Movement teacher, she is currently a student completing the hands on aspect of the four year Feldenkrais training.

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

This course is based on experiential learning and is verbally led. 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 pairwork. The tutor may give some short presentations on relevant topics.

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

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