Description: In the words of Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, "If you know what you are doing, you can do what you want."  A scientist and engineer by training, Dr. Feldenkrais used himself as his own "lab rat".  Through hours of observation and experimentation he developed a method of "learning how to learn."  Though he could have used any number of avenues to express his ideas, he chose movement as the foundation for the method that bears his name.  Beginning with self-observation the Method recreates the "organic" learning fundamental to all human development.  In this workshop you'll get on the floor and experience for yourself what it's like to be a child again - moving for movement's sake, organically learning to move in ways that allow the difficult to become easy and the easy elegant.

Target Audience: Are you someone interested in "organic" learning?  The kind of learning the begins with self-awareness and blossoms into skilled mastery?  If so, this workshop is for you. In this workshop, you will learn to pay attention to what you are doing in a way th....

Organizational Issues: Learning is a process.  It begins with being able to observe what "is" without judgment or expectation.  From an organizational perspective, a neutral background opens a field of possibilities that don't exist when habit and preconceived notions limit opportunity and ideas.  In this workshop, we will explore what it means to simply observe, and experience the potency of making small changes against a neutral backdrop.

Objectives: The objective of this workshop is to explore how non-judgmental self-awareness and a sense of inquiry can lead to organic learning. In the process, you will learn how to let go of the habitual patterns that are limiting you and in their place discover easier, more comfortable and potent ways of being.

Cost: None

Pre-work: None

Materials Needed: Please bring a mat and a towel as you will be lying on the floor.  Also, please dress in loose, comfortable clothing.

Handouts: Available for download after the Forum

Biography: Julie Francis has been teaching Awareness Through Movement® for more than 20 years. She is an Assistant Trainer of the Feldenkrais Method® which means she spends her days teaching the gentle art of enhancing awareness. Julie received degrees in Environmental Engineering and Urban and Environmental Studies, both from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. After a stint in the corporate world, life events led Julie to shift course.  Her path led her to the work of Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais whose philosophy of "learning to learn" continues to inform both her work and her personal growth.  Julie is known for her clarity, compassion and humor. She maintains a private practice in Glen Ellyn.

Contact: Julie can be reached by e-mail at julie@optionsforease.com for additional information about this Pre-Conference session

Website: www.optionsforease.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/pub/julie-francis/2a/634/229