Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q: Can this work benefit any injury or diagnosis?
A: This method can potentially benefit many people. Injuries or diagnosis are important and certainly
taken into consideration. This method is a learning method, not considered a medical treatment. Learning
a function, like turning to look to the right, can be superimposed over structural limitations, like scoliosis.
The brain creates a template for the movement and action. The action, like reaching, can superimpose
over the diagnosis. Learning to move also can be superimposed over diseases. Dr. Feldenkrais said
"the limitation is in the belief that it is so."
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Q: If it works so well…why haven’t I heard of it?
A: One reason may be traditional first options are popular. Conventional medicine and use of prescription
medication, elective surgery, or the “quick fix of symptoms” are a popular choice with many people here in
the Midwest USA. Interest in natural health or alternative/complimentary therapies is increasing.
Massage, Chiropractors, Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, are becoming very popular.
Another reason may be in the explanation of the work. Unless you experience the work, the explanation can
seem challenging and elusive. People have a hard time understanding that there are pathways to success
in life when doing event A and getting resulting event B are not causal linked. I talk about this on my
website in the butterfly section.
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Q: How is this product different from the competition?
A: I am not a chiropractor, yoga instructor, or pilates instructor, so I can not speak to those topics. I am also
a physical therapist and athletic trainer, so I can answer certain questions related to those topics.
-Regarding physical therapy and Neurodevelopmental technique (NDT)
Both Feldenkrais®, The Anat Baniel Method for Infants and Children(SM), and NDT are used with children
inflicted with cerebral palsy. All 3 activities are intended to improve function, and touch clients. The hands
on sessions can look very similar at times to the general public with an untrained eye.
A divergence is in theory. Frequently NDT goals may inhibit abnormal movement patterns (shoulder block,
pelvic-hip block). NDT evaluation and assessment follows “normal” developmental movement sequence.
NDT is a treatment intervention that forms a list of problems solved by treatment. Driven by specific goals.
The Anat Baniel Method for Children(SM) and the Feldenkrais Method®, are learning methods. The Anat
Baniel Method for Children(SM) creates a tremendous eruption of growth of the biological process in
children… all from a small fraction of work with movement. The method is heavily science based…which
does not follow a developmental sequence. Movements can take on a look of infant-like movements. The
use of internal sensations is a unique aspect of this work that drives learning. Most of this work is done “on
the fringes” or “feather edge” of what the child or infant can do. There are no "problems list" with this
method.
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Q: Is this stretching?
A: Stretching and participation in this method can result in experiencing in a similar type of feeling
rejuvenated. Both activities change flexibility. Differences are stretching attempts to change the length of
the muscles directly. The Feldenkrais Method® is a learning method that changes the length of muscles,
indirectly as a result of movement. Dr. Feldenkrais believed the stretch reflex is for protection and self-
preservation to avoid muscle injury.
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Q: Is this proven, is it alternative, safe?
A: Actually research does exist, by going to my web page. I can refer you to articles if you are interested.
Other websites have covered this area well.
Regarding alternative…I think a better words are natural, organic…the methods follow the laws of nature.
Regarding safety, when following the guidelines of the method, the risk of this method is very small to
almost zero. The risks possible but are unlikely...possible falls off the table, straining or delayed soreness
during the group sessions, etc.
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Q: How long will the effects of a lesson last?
A: Effects are immediate as you stand up, and can last hours, days, or years. The effects last longer and
longer the more you participate in the work.
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Q: What is the cost…and is this work economical?
A: Please contact Ray to answer this question.
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Q: What possible reasons why it works?
A: Anat Baniel once said that this work “has a heavy scientific base, but the execution is artistic…like a
surgeon. Surgery has a heavy scientific base…but the execution of surgery is artistic”. The scientific base
is dealing with gravity, movement, and kinesthetic sense. I suggest reading the book Body and Mature
behavior, a study of anxiety, sex, gravitation, and learning. The intent of Dr. Feldenkrais writing this book
was to present his scientific basis.
The Anat Baniel Method(sm) and the Anat Baniel Method for Children(sm) are service marks of Anat
Baniel.
Feldenkrais®, Awareness Through Movement®, Functional Integration , and Feldenkrais® Practitioner are
registered service marks of the FELDENKRAIS GUILD® of North America.
This method is considered a learning approach, not medical treatment. If you are seeking medical advice,
consult with your physician. Ray makes no guarantee concerning a possible specific outcome, result, or
improvement.