The word transcendent means "to go beyond" or "exceeding in degree or excellence.” Focused attention in Feldenkrais lessons allows one to sense where tension is held in the body, and identify and discard unnecessary effort. Overall movement becomes simpler, smoother, and more graceful. Body, mind and spirit feel lighter!
The Feldenkrais Method is named for its founder, Moshe Feldenkrais, and uses a combination of focused attention and gentle action that calm the nervous system and enhance the overall function of the body. In Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement (ATM) lessons, students explore small, comfortable movements that translate to improvements in mobility. Common benefits include increased relaxation, improved posture and flexibility, and pain relief.
The best way to learn more about the Feldenkrais Method is to experience a lesson!
Experience Feldenkrais In the Comfort of Your Own Home!
Contact me at sarah@transcendentmovement.com to schedule a free phone consultation to help you decide if the Feldenkrais Method is a good fit for your needs.
Meet Sarah Leibov, Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner
I first learned of the Feldenkrais Method when I took my first Awareness Through Movement (ATM) class while studying abroad at Tel Aviv University in 1998. I was looking for a yoga class, and attended the Feldenkrais class by accident (I couldn’t read the schedule- it was in Hebrew!). After imitating the other students’ movements, I stood up from the floor and noticed an immediate difference. My back, after years of discomfort caused by scoliosis, was free of pain. I felt taller, and more relaxed. I continued to attend the class, and over time noticed that my digestion improved, and I felt happier.
When I returned to Chicago, I took every Feldenkrais class I could find. After several years of study, I completed my training with the Institute for the Study of Somatic Education (ISSE), led by Paul Rubin and Julie Casson Rubin. I have taught Feldenkrais classes at the Wilmette Park District, Cancer Wellness Center, Condell Hospital, Mather Place, and Pilates Central. I love seeing the looks of delight on students’ faces as they too emerge from classes appearing more agile, lighter, and happier. In addition to practicing Feldenkrais, I love to write and share stories on stage, and spend time with my family.
To learn more about my journey with the Feldenkrais Method: Lilith Magazine “How to Move, How to Breathe”
“I found today’s lesson SO helpful, and very encouraging, thank you! I really think my right fibularis muscle felt looser and more free, and my ankle a little bit less sore with walking. I’ve been enjoying the feeling of my ribs moving and feeling overall lighter and fuller, especially as I move around the house.”
“I’ve been doing gymnastics my whole life- as a gymnast when I was young, and now as a rhythmic coach. I’ve studied biomechanics, physiology, and anatomy in the Institute of Physical Education but never learned how to rest the body, how to shut it off after the hard work. When I started Feldenkrais classes with Sarah I discovered how to rest. I learned to listen to my body and relearned how to use it properly. Every time after a class I feel recovered and light. I breathe better and there is no pain or soreness. Every lesson amazes me and I would recommend Feldenkrais classes to everyone. Sarah is very dedicated to her job and does it with so much passion. Thank you Sarah.”
“Sarah is a wonderful instructor! She is very knowledgeable, kind, gentle and easy to relate to. She teaches Feldenkrais classes for an older population at Mather Place and residents enjoy her classes! Her cues are clear and easy to follow, and people from all fitness levels can participate.”
“I took Feldenkrais class many years ago and felt that it lightened my body (and mind) in a way no other movement does. So happy to have found Sarah’s class. Feldenkrais is like a meditation for your body and Sarah does a great job of leading you through it!”
“Sarah’s ability to help me release burdens and patterns I wasn’t even aware I was carrying gave me spontaneous joy and relief from my neck and shoulder tension! My face looks younger and I feel lighter. Thank you.”
About Feldenkrais:
New York Times “Trying the Feldenkrais Method for Chronic Pain”
Washington Post “A Different Way to Relieve Years of Back Pain”
About Sarah:
Daily North Shore “Getting Fit One Motion at a Time”
OpEd News “Welcome to the World of Feldenkrais”
Wilmette Beacon “Resident Teaches Exercise Therapy Technique at Mallinckrodt Class”
