The Movement of the Eyes Organizes the Movement of the Body (Patrons)
Standing, then mostly side-sitting on the floor, with rests lying on the back. Discovering how improving the smooth tracking of the eyes in various turning motions can improve the whole self.
65m
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Hi Nick,
I first did this lesson back in 2002 when I recorded it on cassette straight from the book. Probably have not done it since 2005. Your pacing was very enjoyable. I remember the lesson somewhat differently. Are they abridged in any way?
Hello! It’s been a few years since I recorded and listened to this one, but my intention with these lessons from Moshe’s ATM book has been to stay as close to the written lesson as possible, even as I put things in my own words. At this point the lessons I have left to add to this collection are the ones that will require a little more creativity! So I’m pretty certain this version is close to the source, though I do recall some ambiguity in Moshe’s instructions about differentiation of the eyes. I chose to play with that step late in the lesson in supine, to hedge my bets a little. If you happen to compare directly, comment again and let us all know! -Nick
I have only just come to Feldenkrais.
During a retreat that I attended Feldenkrais was run each morning.
I found them amazing….Having MS I felt a huge benefit in my movement.
I just now did this session and now I will do it regularly because by the end of it my balance and movement was so much better.
I’m a convert.
Thank you
Definitely one of my favorite lessons. It may seem our eyes are working and our body is what gets stuck when really it’s the other way around.
Is there a lesson that works with the eyes in more of an up and down manner? Also what lesson would you recommend for improving the side sitting configuration?
[2023 Update: Basic Folding and Arching (Patrons) is a more direct exploration of your question (up/down eyes).]
I believe that the first half of More Precise Hips and Spine includes movements like this, at least for the skull, jaw, and tongue – maybe the eyes too (it’s been a long time since I’ve done it). Either way it will help with the eyes up and down question.
Regarding getting more comfortable in side-sitting, I’ve added info to the Related Notes tab on this lesson, above! Thanks to your comment I’ve added another cross-reference for donors there.