Open Call
Funding Provided by:
NOVA: Becoming a True Human Being
Creator(s):
Linda Flanders
location:
Bay City, Wisconsin International Feldenkrais trainer Russell Delman, explains how the work of Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais is the fastest way to alter compulsive patterns of behavior: Actions, emotions and thinking. The Feldenkrais Method teaches "awareness" and the movement lessons break up compulsive motor patterns that are formed during pre-verbal human development. He explains the neuroscience research that supports this work and how Feldenkrais taught human beings how to reach their highest creative potential.
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In a rare move where they
In a rare move where they DON'T back a company that makes something that kills people (Big Pharma) have recalled a whole bunch of HVP, or Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, for being infected with salmonella.
Becoming a True Human Being
Thank you Linda for an exceptional film and thank you Russell for your eloquence in describing the power and the possibility of the Feldenkrais Method. This film does a beautiful job of beginning to describe a deep and powerful body of work. This work has changed my life and I will continue studying it and teaching it, so that others may grow. Blessings.
Becoming a True Human Being
An excellent discussion of the Feldenkrais Method®, the science that supports it, and its many potential applications. This work has benefitted people all over the world and needs to be more widely known so that many more could be helped by this gentle and sophisticated modality of growth and healing.
Becoming a True Human Being
Would love to hear more about how significant movement learning is to our overall well-being.
Enlightenment
This video struck true on many levels for me. I believe this requires further investigation. Thank you for making this available.
Becoming a True Human Being
Awesome! I would like to see more about this.
become a true human being
the ideas are good. This is the new frontier where after centuries we are discovering the fundamental integrated connections of mind to its body base. However, the Feldenkrais Method has not developed this into a clear and systematic path. It is all process and lacks directional content,leaves out, often downplays, exercise, the major food of the brain, and,the specific pathway connecting process of a new learning. Otherwise, good as a beginning.
Feldenkrais and potential
Research now shows us the plasticity of the brain, the ability to change and learn at any age. Feldenkrais has the potential to assist with simple movements that build awareness on the visible and sub visable, the internal and external of our bodies while conecting the mind to a living awareness of our skeletal structure. Thanks for showing this video. I will pass it on to friends and family.
Feldenkrais on NOVA! Wonderful!!
Russell is really finding language to get at the heart of what this method is about. I am thrilled to see him on the web site. Is NOVA going to do a televised production! That would be wonderful!
Feldenkrais Method: Becoming a True Human Being - Russell Delman
Behind the words - better: the profound attitude and experience-in-depth - expressed in these short three minutes on the Feldenkrais Method is the Human Being, Russell Delman.
Russell is the "Leitbild" of a teacher-practitioner. I have been his student for years and what really inspired me is that he definitively walks the walk of the Feldenkrais Method and his Human Be-ingness. He even goes so far as to expose himself, his inner-most emotions.
As an example of the Human Teacher who teaches students to become human teachers themselves, there is no embarassement - just the integrity which convinces!
It would be a great service to mankind if this short film would be expanded to include further such teachings.
...the "True" Human Being?
So, do I forfeit becoming a "true" human being if I don't practice this method? We are all true human beings; no one is an "untrue" human. Apart from the title, I'm not sure what this has to do with evolution (in the Darwinian or scientific sense)...most of the comments seem to be by people who practice or teach this method of "somatic" healing/learning...it's good social networking, I'll say that, but more of an opportunity to promote a quasi-scientific ("alternative"), jargon-laden philosophy, than present a viewpoint inspired by evolution. And, as far as "compulsive motor patterns...formed during pre-verbal human development" goes...these (patterns) would seem to be linked to human survival and natural, developmental (neural) processes/programs (thus necessary and not "bad")...And, our "creative potential" also produced the atomic bomb (and other WMD)...point being: harnessing this potential guarantees no beneficial outcome...in any event, here is my method for "healing" the body from stress and trauma: remove (or remove oneself from) the source of stress/trauma, find something that makes you laugh, eat a simple and nutritious diet, and get plenty of bed rest...after a reasonable period, get up (out of bed), take a walk, spend some time with someone you love, dance a little (repeat as needed)...There it is--no charge, no "training" necessary!
""quasi-scientific ("alternative"), jargon-laden philosophy""
Dear Darwindogg,
I dare say that is just the problem in a nut-shell: an according language is being created while Russell is teaching this field, the Feldenkrais Method.
It does sound, as you have put it, like ""quasi-scientific ("alternative"), jargon-laden philosophy"". Yet I needed to be present - and to combat my own misunderstandings (and that resistance that I put up saying to myself
"philological nonsense" (sprachliche Unsinn)...) - to appreciate what is happening, i.e., the investigation to create transformation of understanding the "new meaning of old words".
"Pharmacology", my first professional language, uses words which in another context have other meanings. Also, I have used eight diffent languages (three diffent language groups) to make myself understandable to other people, so I presumed I knew what was happening...
The only way for profound understanding is experiencing. With all due respect, may I suggest you participate at one of Russell's workshops.
"True" Human Being
To cut a long story short: some very personal remarks:
Most people (and that´s "us") are not "true" indeed. They say, "I´m fine" with clenched teeth and they really believe that. They are not aware of their true feelings, needs, energies, fears, their potential... The consequence of that is vast destruction (of ourselves and others) by e.g. criticism, ill-will, rivalry, greed, enviousness, self-limitation...
To me humanity (humaneness) is a positive term that is closely related to authenticity and that can evolve only through knowing, acknowledging, appreciating and loving yourself. The Feldenkrais-method and Russell´s way in particular allow the emotional realisation of our bodily sensations and thus "getting to know ourselves" - to me the "point of origin".
I would like to argue more points, but the New Year is coming.
Just this: taking the courage to calmly "just" look closely, listen, sense underneath the surface is (in addition to thinking) an essential ingredient of a better = truer life. This requires not "training" but lifelong "cultivating" and "getting acquainted with".
You´ll never know unless you try.
...really?...not another one!
As I predicted, responses to my comments would urge me to "try" the method for myself...without these responders having any knowledge of where I have been, or, what I have "experienced" in my life (let's see: prayer, zazen, self-hypnosis, auto-genic training, bio-feedback, bio-mechanics, yoga, sensory deprivation, more...)...now, I am told that I must try yet another method to experience "authentic" human being-ness?...ug...It seems the human capacity to invent new methods to heal our own self-imposed "ailments" is endless...BTW, Is this training available for free? I suspect not...now there's an authentic human behavior! I call it Homo capitalis. It would be truly edifying to have someone compare my "method" (stated in my original comment) to the Feldenkrais method, to see if mine was at least as effective, or not...but alas, no one is willing to do so (as of yet). Perhaps a grant to fund research would be useful....you can call my method the 'Placebo Method'...but to reiterate: NO ONE is an INAUTHENTIC HUMAN. Even the most repressed, denial-driven, compulsive personality in the world, is still true to (its) human nature. How utterly self-indulgent!
"True Humanity"
I suspected your reaction, and I´m not content with my last words, but that happens when you write in a hurry. So I revise: it´s worth trying. Even if that doesn´t make a difference for you, for me it does.
Robert Lax (for me a star, for others maybe an odd boring man) said about words:
I have come upon two rather paradoxical truths about them:
One is the power of words, particularly the simplest,
to evoke a deep response.
The second is the inadequacy of most of them to the needs of poetry.
I think it´s the same when we try to communicate about things that are most important to us. Furthermore disambiguation is our first obligation here and I´m afraid we will not succeed in doing this in this place.
Besides I wholeheartedly agree that I don´t agree with you.
I´m not talking about "something" that I have achieved, but "something" that I am orientated to, being on a way that feels incredibly life-giving to me.
I am articulating my opinion, my personal experience, gratitude and "love" (hahaha!) for this way. And I´m very serious about that.
Last but not least I want to top that:
one conclusion of my own life history (backache, studying various bodily and psychological methods)and my observations of others is: e.g. with physical problems: even practicing Feldenkrais (a brilliant method!)often does not have a lasting healing effect, unless "something" happens deep inside, I call it "heart-opening".
In my common speech (Austrian German) there´s the expression: don´t be so "half"! Maybe that´s a way to describe it: being a true human being (to me) means not to be "half", but becoming more "all of it" (an ideal conception) - and thus becoming more "authentic" - "humane"
Well, it´s really a long story and it´s very individual and nearly impossible to be put into words. It´s the opinion of a human being named Irene, not more but also not less, as well as your way is.
To me your way sounds like avoidance and trying to controll and fix things, strategies that haven´t really enriched my own life. We both are free to choose and none of us is the one who is right. I honestly don´t want to teach anyone.
A healthy New Year to all of us.
avoidance and control
First. I do not deny that anyone (you, for example) might find benefit from this (or that) method...lot's of people swear by scientology too....my basic critical point was: here is yet another (you pay) method of "achieving" (something, some "fuller" existence, as claimed by the founder of the method)...a more subtle question would be: how is this different from any "cult-like" religion or philosophical ideology? All provide some modicum of benefit to some percentage of people (but why must I be indoctrinated? Why must I pay?)....My other point was more basic and humanistic: NO ONE is an "inauthentic" human being (but if you beleive that you are, well...I know this mehtod you can learn for only....)...compulsive behavior/motor patterns, however early we learned them, don't make us less human (what bizarre thinking!)....but, that said, if the method work for you, great!...I am reminded here of the old Aesop fable of the Fox With No Tail (look it up)...finally, regarding this statemtnt: "...avoidance and trying to controll and fix things..." wow, this is an amazing example of projection! It claims that by NOT learning a given method (to "fix" compulsive patterns/achieved "authentic" being-ness), I am being "controlling" ! As for avoidance, ok, sure, I am avoiding buying into the fundamental claim/postulate of this method, just as I avoid joining a religious group or church or faith (for the same reasons)...I'm not sure if that was a critique, or, a statement of fact.
Excellent Video
I would love to watch more about this topic!
Russell Delman Feldenkrais Video
The Feldenkrais method is a terrific tool for developing both physical and emotional awareness. The video is informative but far too short--this is a topic that deserves a full and thoughtful treatment.
Russell Delman Feldenkrais video
Thanks for posting this. I'd like to see more video of Russell Delman and the Feldenkrais method.
Please expand this short
Please expand this short video into a full NOVA program!
Feldenkrais
I hope you share information on this topic on Nova. I began working with an instructor over the summer, 09. Really I was just curious about the work and couldn't get a grasp of it from books.
It is so subtle yet transformative. I am seeing physical improvements in my daily life like the near elimination of back pain. You know how that can effect your attitude towards life!
I am learning to use my body in a better way. This method travels with me outside the class room!
I am a horse rider and I know my balance and "centered-ness" has improved. My horse and I feel as one.
My instructor has experienced mind-blowing changes in how she experiences the world. She honestly can not put these effects into words but I can tell by how her face lights up, how wonderful Feldenkrais work can be.
It's not flashy and has not received the attention it deserves, in my opinion.
I hope you will share this information with the world. And please email me with the airing time when you do.
Thanks!
Feldenkrais
Great Video!
becoming truly human
Yes, I agree. Russell himself told us a story: when he (Russell) was visiting Dr. Feldenkrais in Tel Aviv he (Russell) saw the people leaving the class at Alexander Yanai street. They were moving beautifully, according to Russell but then they would be ceowding for the bus pushing and hurrying forgetting all about manner and dignity that they seemed to have just minutes before. When Russell told this Dr. Feldenkrais, he (Dr.F) said that indeed that is one of his greatest disappointment. His students do not automaticvally mature and become true/better human beings. They may move better and with less pain which is no small achivement! To be more human, to realize their full potential is only a possibility. And I have met a trainer, a top trainer at that, who seemed to enjoy ridiculing his student, making them cry in the 1st year of their training. Dr. Feldenkrais might have hurt people intentionally, provoking them - but as opposed to this trainer, he (Dr.F.) had the guts to apologize later. As we later learnt, Dr. Feldenkrais might have been impatient because of this accident when he hurt his head and the brainn damage that was not diagnosed at the time that might have lead to his early death also.
Nevertheless, I do see remarkable changes in my students both mental and physical! They tell me that their more patient, more ballanced etc.
promotional
Sounds little preachy. And shouldn't have used "NOVA" in the title.
NOVA: Becoming a True Human Being
Russell has such true capacity and heart to clearly and elegantly express the holistic healing potential of this work. His depth of experience and living what he teaches shines through his being -- it would be an enduring gift to have this shared with NOVA.
Russell Delman/ Linda Flanders piece on Becoming Human
The Feldenkrais Method should definitely be fully explored and presented on NOVA and this video is a great introduction and start. I have been a student/client of this method for 6 years and a practitioner--at age 64--for one. I am a living example of the beginning and awakening of the potential that Mr. Delman--and Moshe--described.
Great work you two!
Russell Delman Feldenkrais on Nova
Yes, Please air the Russell Delman video on Nova as the world is ready to learn more and be more creative!
to be really human through the Feldenkrais method
Succint summary of the method! However:
1)Practitoners of the Method are not all becoming more human in my experience.
2) Did not Moshe Feldenkrais say that NONE of his students did really grasp what his method was about and that maybe in 50 yrs there will be someone coming along who will understand what he was teaching about. Did not he furhter say that his students acquired some of the supeficialities but not the essence. Was not that the reason he did NOT appointed anyone to be his successor? Neverhteless, he further said that they (his students) will make a living out of it. Of the many practitoners and trainers I have met over the years there was ONLY ONE who provided me with a real life changing experience!
Becoming a True Human Being
I think this is also true. In my experience there were also not so many trainers of this kind, but more than one, after all. But there is Moshe and there is me and there is a way (methodos: way).
I generally abide to Robert Lax:....
make your selection calmly as you go
fall into error? take a new turn
you´re your own best teacher
do what seems right and hope for the best.....
I am unendingly grateful for all this.
Becoming a True Human Being
Yes, Please air this video. A great Fresh, perspective. The world needs to know more about this method!
Becomming a True Human Being
I have recently watched brain plasticity. It was wonderful. I wondered why The Feldenkrais Method had not been aired. The Feldenkrais Method is about gentle movement done with attention and intention in which the brain learns how how the body is meant to move. The result is ease of movement, correct posture, flexibility and balance. Youthfulness is restored. One becomes at peace, more confident and develops a new way of living and perceiving. The student experiences their true potential and a way to help themselves. I can't say enough a about The Feldenkrais Method the about the changes I see in my students. The true joy in the eyes of my students as they realize the changes they experience. The Feldenkrais Method has changed my life. Moshe Feldenkrais was a genious. The brain plasticity and the way we teach the body by teaching brain how to move in Feldenkrais was the similiarity I noticed. Airing Rusell Dellman's Becomming a True Human Being will offer hope to millions along with the new plasticity. As a long term member of PBS, I hope you air this on PBS.
Becoming a Trud Human Being
Yes we can!
Becoming a true human being
thank you for creating this video. I hope we get to see more and Feldenkrais work gets more exposure
Feldenkrais video
As lifelong seeker and professional in the arena of self awareness, I am thrilled to see Feldenkrais get more attention in the wider population. With the crisis in Health Care, Feldenkrais remains a true healing method that helps integrate soul, spirit and body/mind. For me it is the elegantly simple integration of all the years of my work and searching that is the most potent offering of Feldenkrais.
I would like to see a series on Feldenkrais that shows by example the wide range of issues Feldenkrais can dramatically affect. If not a series then this video of Russel's is just great. Those of us lucky enough to have found it know how lucky we are. Profoundly.
I support his video and would like even more.
This method is a quiet little sleeper that can tame monsters and move mountains ever so quietly, simply and respectfully.
Swens4
russell dellman
As a primary care physician I see everyday the effects of stress and inefficient body mechanics--both physical and mental. If, somehow, we could have a world full of people who could be aware of both their minds and bodes, we would be a healthier society in all respects
Becoming a True Human Being
The Feldenkrais method is part of a paradigm shift in which the old paradigm, based on dominance, force and coercion, is giving way to a new paradigm based on trust, respect and kindness. Feldenkrais is the embodiment of this new paradigm. The work has been revolutionary and deeply transformational in my own life.
Becoming a True Human Being
I truly hope that Nova airs this segment on Russell Delman expressing the deeply transformative nature of the Feldenkrais Method. Feldenkrais offers us a holistic way of learning that can unfold every one of us toward our greater potential. The world is ripe for Feldenkrais, for as we come home to our true natures, we can learn to live peacefully with one another throughout the world. Other vast benefits, which include increased mobility, and decrease in chronic pain, seem to pale in comparison.
Nova: Becoming a True Human Being
I thought this short was filled with possibilities for life changing experiences.... could that be translated through the medium of a TV show? If so, this is of the utmost importance. Please get the word out! The world can use a lift like this.
Devorah Landa
Loved this video. Have been
Loved this video. Have been working with a Feldenkrais instructor myself because of a motor vehicle accident and know first hand that what Russell has said is true. It would be great to get this on PBS! I hope it does!
Russell Delman - Becoming a True Human Being
Sincere thanks for presenting the Feldenkrais-method and Russell`s contribution in particular. This work offers a clue for living life in a truly humane way. It allows to rediscover our potential, our uniqueness, our courage to listen to our heart, and peaceful and joyful relationship with others may grow.
Feldenkrais fundamentally means studying interrelations in many respects and the connectivity with latest Neurobiological research raises hope for wider recognition of this most valuable way. It`s high time.
I vote for this video.
Becoming a True Human Being
Great video. I vote for it and hope PBS airs it!
video
This deserves a greater commentary for television. I loved it and wish it could be furtherexplored.
Nova vote
I vote for Feldenkrais with Russell Delman. It seems such a simple idea this 'awareness' thing. how can it be that such a simple thing can improve our lives and our world? I'm curious to find out. Please do a Nova segment on Feldenkrais.
Feldenkrais Method: Russell Delman
Russell is articulate and passionate in his discussion on how Feldenkrais method is facilitating people to become fully functional and aware-not just of their bodies, but of life.
It is a life altering experience that is simple, easy and fun.
Thanks!
Feldenkrais Video
This is interesting and inspiring. I would love to learn more.
Russell Delman
Clear, deep, teachings through the body/mind. I hope PBS airs a program on Feldenkreis and Russell Delman. This is my #1 vote.
Russell Delman video
Russell's ability to clearly express the complexity of this powerful method is wonderful. The Feldenkrais Method is the most effective way I have experienced to help assist people to discover new and life changing truths about themselves. This method deserves national atttention and Russell is an incredible person to help this come about.
Becoming a True Human Being
Russell Delman has the rare gift of being able to convey the wonders of this simple, yet extraordinary work. Feldenkrais changed my life.
I vote for this one!
Utterly transformative work
As a longtime meditator, psychotherapy patient, workshop goer, yoga practitioner, student of everything, etc etc etc, I can say definitively that the Feldenkrais Method is Transformative work. Russell Delman is utterly, completely devoted to raising humans to their magnificent potentials via this work. If I had one wish for the world, it would be for everyone to have a taste of what is offered here - the magic of their own freedom.
The feldenkrais practices and
The feldenkrais practices and Russell's combination of work is an amazing way to experience the true potential of human life. I vote for this one!!