About
What is the Anat Baniel Method and NeuroMovement?
How does it work?
Tell me more!
The Anat Baniel Method, founded by a student of Dr. Moshé Feldenkrais, Anat Baniel, is a learning modality that uses movement to engage the brain. Anat coined the term “NeuroMovement” to refer to this modality.
ABM™ uses slow, gentle movements to help a client (or “student”) increase their awareness of themselves and how they are moving. During a session (or “lesson”), chronic muscular contractions can let go, most often resulting in greater ease of movement, freedom from pain and tension, and a feeling of calm and relaxation.
ABM is based on the science of neuroplasticity, the field of neuroscience that studies the ability of the brain to learn, change, and form new connections. We learn and change the fastest and most easily in particular conditions—such as when we feel safe, calm, and unhurried. Anat came up with a set of principles which she calls the "Nine Essentials" that create these ideal learning conditions. These “essentials” are applied in concrete ways in all NeuroMovement lessons. In essence, ABM applies principles of neuroplasticity to movement in real time. The result is that the brain and body are better able to communicate and work as they truly are: one complete system, as opposed to two mechanisms at odds with each other.
"Movement is the language of the brain."
Anat Baniel
What are the benefits?
Because ABM treats the body and the brain as one system, the benefits of the lessons are numerous, and can include:
Relief and recovery from pain, tension, and injury
A sense of ease in movement and breathing
A greater ability to focus
A better quality of sleep
Reduced feelings of anxiety and stress
Increased energy and stamina
And much more! But--who can benefit?
In my experience as an ABM student and practitioner, I have rarely encountered anyone who has NOT benefited in some way from ABM. Because the modality only uses movement that is truly easy and comfortable for each individual student, there are no limits on who can participate in a lesson. I have worked with clients with various types of needs, goals, and conditions, including stroke, concussion, migraines, cerebral palsy, chronic pain, asthma, arthritis, and various injuries.
For more information about who can benefit from ABM, see Anat's website: anatbanielmethod.com
If you're not sure if ABM is right for you, contact me at refinedinaction@gmail.com! I'd be happy to answer your questions.
"If you have pain and/or tension that's contributing to mobility issues, I highly recommend going to see Lexi! After trying other types of treatments that provided some relief, but overall limited success, I was skeptical that such a gentle method would be very beneficial. I was pleasantly surprised and glad to have been proven wrong. Each visit not only provides more physical progress, but has also been an opportunity to learn of the inner workings and connections during movements and become better aware of the tendencies that often go unnoticed, which makes a huge difference in finding lasting relief. Be sure to contact Lexi to start feeling and moving better!”
Linda
What does an ABM lesson look like?
There are two types of ABM lessons, and both use the same fundamental principles (the Nine Essentials). Both types of lessons are approximately 45 minutes long.
Transformational Movement Lessons (TMLs) are lessons where I verbally guide students through a series of movements. I offer these lessons as group classes.
Functional Synthesis (FS) lessons are lessons where I work one-on-one with a student. We discuss your goals and I work hands-on with you, tailoring a lesson to your specific needs.
FAQs
What do I need for a lesson?
For TMLs, students should bring a couple of yoga mats, blankets, or towels to lie on (enough padding to lie comfortably on the floor). For TMLs or FS, students must wear socks and clothing that is easy and comfortable to move in. I highly recommend wearing layers, even if you are not prone to being cold.
What is an “Intensive” and how do I know if I should book one?
An Intensive is a series of lessons, usually 4 or more, done close together. Certain ailments or conditions may benefit from a series of lessons scheduled close together. For example, someone who had a stroke may experience immediate benefits from one lesson, but would continue to learn and improve even more with a series of lessons, whereas someone who has acute pain (like a sore ankle from a long hike) may only need one lesson. Every person is different, and part of the consultation process in your first lesson is to discuss your goals and work together to find the best way that ABM can benefit you.
Why should I try ABM?
Often, when we are experiencing discomfort (such as pain and tension), we go directly to that place of discomfort and prod at it, seeking to fix it by massage or foam rolling, by strengthening surrounding muscles, and various other types of symptom management. These practices often help, but don’t always get to the root of the problem. ABM takes a completely different approach. Rather than going to a place of pain, discomfort, or tension, NeuroMovement lessons stay within a range of movement that is truly easy and comfortable for the student. This simple technique, combined with the Nine Essentials mentioned above, can have a profound impact.
Can you work with children?
I am currently only certified to work with adults; however, Lorrie Jollimore is another ABM practitioner in Charlottetown who is fully certified to work with children. To book with her, visit her website at movementandvitality.com.
About Me
Alexandra (Lexi) Durant has a background in dance and theatre, and discovered ABM while trying to treat a number of injuries she sustained during her years in the performing arts. She found ABM to be so effective that she was inspired to take the training to become a practitioner herself.
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When she's not doing ABM (or benefitting from an ABM lesson herself!), she's likely walking on the beach, trying out a new recipe, or re-reading a very well-loved copy of the Lord of the Rings.
Just have a question? Send me an email at refinedinaction@gmail.com
Contact
Address
The Health Associates
10 F. J. McAulay Ct
Charlottetown, PE C1A 9M7
Contact
902-916-6432
Opening Hours
Monday
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Wednesday
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Friday
Coming soon
Learn more about ABM and the Nine Essentials
Disclaimer (taken from anatbanielmethod.com): Anat Baniel Method®NeuroMovement® is not a medical modality and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your physician or other medical professionals. Always seek the advice of your physician, or other qualified health care providers, with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, treatment, or if you seek to discontinue current treatment/s. As each adult and child is unique, results and outcomes are not guaranteed and may vary.