What benefits does the Feldenkrais Method have for elders?

So many people are told that they have arthritis or degenerative disc disease and should expect pain and increasing loss of function as they age. The diagnosis often becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy, as people restrict activity to avoid pain, and then become stiff. The stiffness and pain interfere with sleep, which exacerbates the situation.

Moshe Feldenkrais often worked with elders, and his goal was not only to increase mobility, decrease pain, and increase independence, but also to help seniors to “get growing again.” He emphasized that the Feldenkrais Method often produced surprising results and was particularly well suited to senior citizens. While younger people, when trying to learn something new, may use too much effort, people with lots of life experience have the wisdom to go slowly and learn well.

The Feldenkrais Method, with its slow, gentle movements is a great fit for older people. For those who have difficulty lying flat on the floor, lessons can be done while sitting in a chair.