Older Peoples’ Perceived Benefits of Feldenkrais Method Classes

Abstract

Aims: The Feldenkrais Method of movement education has gradually gained in popularity in recent years; however, there is little research explaining why people engage in the Feldenkrais Method. The aim of this study was to understand the benefits perceived by older people from participation in an "awareness through movement" (ATM) class, as described in the Feldenkrais Method of movement education. This study aimed to be a foundation for future quantitative research and guide the selection of appropriate outcome measures. Methods: Semi-structured interviews with eight participants explored the perceived benefits of older people taking part in a community-based organization Feldenkrais class. The class was conducted by an occupational therapist who was also a Feldenkrais Practitioner. Results: Key themes were varied benefits, the attraction of gentle exercise, body and movement awareness, and mindfulness. Expected and perceived benefits were functional, physical, and psychological. Conclusion: The Feldenkrais Method is a multifactorial intervention, addressing a broad scope of outcomes. It may be an attractive option for older people to explore exercise, movement, and mindfulness. Future research should consider the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Feldenkrais Method classes.

Using the Feldenkrais Method of Somatic Education to Enhance Mindfulness, Body Awareness, and Empathetic Leadership Perceptions Among College Students

“…This orientation is the very countering of the mind's tendency to wander, since it compels our attention to remain grounded in present bodily sensations. A qualitative study (Broome et al, 2015) of elders participating in Feldenkrais lessons found that they self-reported enhanced mindfulness as one of its benefits. We argue that Feldenkrais has the potential to enhance mindfulness in ways that help people remain in the present, enhancing their capacities for empathic leadership.…”

Kinomichi, the therapeutic Aikido. A Systematic Review

“…The concept was developed and created by Moshe Feldenkrais (1904Feldenkrais ( -1984 as a method of self-development and a new approach to the body during a rehabilitation period after a knee injury while practising judo (Eddy, 2009). The Feldenkrais Method has been developed in mindfulness work (Mattes, 2016;Wallman-Jones et al, (2023) or the level of psychological well-being (Wallman-Jones et al, 2023) in older people (Broome et al, 2015).…”

Singing with awareness: A phenomenology of singers’ experience with the Feldenkrais Method

“…As noted, the research on the FM among singers is limited; however, there have been a number of peer-reviewed studies in the medical and rehabilitation literature that have linked Feldenkrais participation to improved health and wellness, reported as physical and psychological benefits (Broome et al, 2015). Some researchers cautioned that results must be considered carefully as many of these studies have design limitations that mitigate their reported positive results (Buchanan, 2012; Buchanan & Ulrich, 2001; Stephens, 2004).…”