Research and the Feldenkrais Method

Sharing a Different Vision with the World

Abstract

The practice of the Feldenkrais Method affords both teacher and student new lenses through which to experience the world. The perspectives gained by participating in a Feldenkrais lesson expand both parties’ awareness while fostering creativity and efficient action. The understanding and sharing of this phenomenon is critical in our world today as human beings face increasingly complex and urgent challenges that require such creative action. As an outsider looking in, there appear to be many important opportunities for the Feldenkrais community to contribute to the body of human knowledge through research.

Stephens and Ginsburg provide excellent summaries of the technical aspects and limitations of research on the Feldenkrais Method. This article acknowledges those issues, but will address practical observations for consideration. Looking beyond the obvious studies of relative measurable movement improvement and direct comparison trials of intervention types, the Feldenkrais Method has many opportunities to influence traditional movement research and also bridge movement into the various social sciences. How this might be done, including possible study suggestions and questions will be addressed first. Additionally, suggestions are offered on how research on the Feldenkrais Method can enrich our language and transform traditional movement paradigms by articulating and documenting new forms of inquiry.