My Mission
At Feldenkrais San Diego, it is our vision to share the Feldenkrais Method, in principle and in practice, with an extended, inclusive community of individuals to enhance their wellness, creativity, posture, and centeredness.
We seek to support people during life’s transitions and beyond, while encouraging and aiding in self-development through this gentle yet transformative process.
What is Feldenkrais?
The Feldenkrais Method is a form of somatic education that uses gentle movement and focused attention to enhance self-awareness, coordination, and overall human functioning.
The Feldenkrais Method is not an exercise or therapy, but rather a process of learning through mindful movement and exploration.
History
The Feldenkrais Method was developed, in the 1940s, by Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais. He developed the Method as a way to improve his knee injuries. Today, it is used all over the world by dancers, athletes, and people of all ages.
Feldenkrais’ theory is that “thought, feeling, perception, and movement are closely interrelated and influence each other.”
Benefits
The Feldenkrais Method can have a variety of positive benefits.
How Feldenkrais Connects with Our Moving Lives
The Feldenkrais Method and other somatic practices are intricately woven into daily life, supporting wellbeing, adaptability, and skill in people of all ages and interests.
Aging
Feldenkrais helps older adults address common aches, maintain comfort, and improve function without invasive procedures.
Children
Children benefit from Feldenkrais by improving balance, posture, and self-confidence.
Dance
Dancers use Feldenkrais to sharpen body control, enhance grace, and strengthen the mind-body connection.
Golf
Golfers can use Feldenkrais to sharpen focus and link mental clarity with fluid, balanced swings.
Martial Arts
Feldenkrais is embraced across many martial art disciplines to heighten awareness and refine reflexes, boosting performance and safety.
Running
Feldenkrais helps runners optimize comfort, flexibility, and improved recovery from the repetitive stresses of running.
Stretching
Feldenkrais differs from traditional stretching by linking muscle groups and the nervous system to create smooth, integrated movement and greater flexibility.
Walking
The Feldenkrais approach brings attention back to the basics of walking, helping people rediscover balance, posture, and ease.
Meet Donna
Donna Wood is a sculptor and martial artist who has devoted over twenty years to teaching the Feldenkrais Method. As a Trainer Candidate, she brings a wealth of expertise, holding a black belt in the Japanese discipline of Aikido and the rank of Professor in the Brazilian art of Capoeira. Donna maintains a full-time Feldenkrais private practice, where she blends dance and martial arts into her lessons, making her approach uniquely dynamic and integrative.