Feldenkrais: what the research says

Only a few small studies exist, on pain and on balance in older people, and results are very uncertain. Other needs are unstudied.

What a session is

Feldenkrais lessons use slow, gentle movements and close attention to how you move. Group classes are guided by voice; one-to-one lessons use gentle, hands-on guidance.

What the research says

• Back, neck and muscle tension: A few small studies looked at back, neck and shoulder pain. Reviewers found the results very uncertain. Limited evidence · Australian Government Department of Health (Natural Therapies Review 2024; Cochrane Australia), 2024
• Balance and falls (older people): A few small studies in older adults looked at balance, mobility and falls. Results are very uncertain. Limited evidence · Australian Government Department of Health (Natural Therapies Review 2024; Cochrane Australia), 2024
• Sleep, stress, worry, low mood, menopause and grief: No studies have looked at these needs, an Australian government review found. No good evidence yet · Australian Government Department of Health (Natural Therapies Review 2024; Cochrane Australia), 2024

More on each need: A relaxed body · Sleep better · Handle stress better · Feel calmer · Lift your mood · Menopause wellbeing · Grief and loss

Is it safe?

Lessons use slow, gentle movements, but the review we use did not look at safety. If you have pain, an injury or a health condition, speak to a GP first. Australian Government Department of Health (Natural Therapies Review 2024; Cochrane Australia), 2024 · NHS, 2024

Sessions on Sissoo complement medical care and never replace it. Please don’t stop or change any treatment without talking to your doctor. If you feel very low or think about ending your life, call your local emergency number now.

Checked 22 October 2026. Next check by April 2027. How we rate the evidence.