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Desk-Trainer

Body Scan.  Classes begin with you lying on a comfortable mat while your teacher guides you through a body scan to begin the relaxation process, establish a blueprint of your body to which you can refer throughout the class, and fine-tune your ability to focus and discern the subtle differences that may occur during the class.

Awareness.  During the class, bring your focus to the sensations created by each movement and notice how that movement affects other parts of your body.

Comfort is key.  Always move within your own comfort zone.  Comfortable movement is fluid, without strain or stretch, and inherently enjoyable.  You are always free to change your position, stop or just continue the movement in your imagination.

Less is more.  Consciously do less than you are capable of doing.  Reduce your effort, speed, range, and number of repetitions.  A powerful neurological rule is that less muscular effort produces more sensory motor learning and physical improvement. 

Avoid Parasitic Activity.  You will learn to avoid "parasitic activity," i.e., any activity unnecessary to the movement you are performing.  For example, holding your breath or tightening your neck and shoulders while you move your leg are parasitic activities. 

Trust your own Body Intelligence.  You know how much movement is comfortable for your own body-- there is not need to compete with others or copy them.  If you don't understand an instruction, please ask your teacher.

Take a Walk After Class.  Throughout the class your body and nervous system are receiving a wealth of information.  There is an easy way to help retain the learning-- before returning to the hustle and bustle of your daily life, give yourself a few minutes to talk a walk.  Notice the difference in your body and the great fluidity of your movement.

Recall the Movements.  Over the next few days, occasionally recall the movements and how you felt during them.  Possibly review one or two.  You will find ways to integrate the learning into every day activities.

"The object of this learning is to remove outside authority from your inner life."  --Moshe Feldenkrais
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