Inger Brueckner, PT
As a PT working with people in the limb loss and limb difference community, I have struggled to adapt exercises so that can work for many people. I have been on a quest to find approaches that can be performed when prosthetics are not available or difficult to use. I found the Franklin Method during the pandemic, and it has been a revelation. I really enjoy the educational component and the way the method empowers the participant. It is a departure from the more traditional medical model of finding out what is “wrong” and then “fixing” it. It has been designed to be experienced, rather than taught. The Franklin Method, developed by dancer Eric Franklin, combines understanding anatomical function, movement, and Dynamic Neuro-cognitive Imagery (DNI)™ to harness the transforming power of the mind. With the power to change the body from the inside out, imagery can influence and rejuvenate. It also paves the way for rapid improvements in posture, flexibility, and coordination. When talking this class for the first time, I was struck by how the method helps you find the joy in your body.
The phrase “Mind over matter” takes on new significance when linked to research into the undeniable connection between imagery and physical and mental health. In other words, if you can imagine it, you can become it. Yoga, Pilates, and fitness coaches worldwide swear by the Franklin Method® as it accelerates training gains and puts the fun back into movement. Athletes, dancers, and fitness experts have used sophisticated mental imagery to enhance their performance, and now you can too.
This movement session is founded on the idea that by engaging both the sensory feedback system and the mind’s processing power, you can more quickly improve the way you move. By increasing the information harnessed, you can improve the precision of your navigation. This is achieved by drawing attention to the body, increasing proprioception feedback and using visualization (both anatomical and imaginary) much in the way Olympic athletes do. The brain is the most powerful tool we have to change our perception of our bodies and movement, but is often not engaged to its maximum potential. I have had very positive feedback from my patients and other therapists when sharing what I have learned. This has driven me to become a level 1 educator and share the method to a larger audience, you! While this session will be an introduction, it will include handouts for continuing the activity on your own as well as resources to help you find instructors in your area.
Join me for my live session at the 2022 Amputee Coalition National Conference on Thursday, August 11th from 3:45 – 4:45 p.m. PT. All abilities are welcome, no need to stand or transfer, you are welcome to use your prosthetics, or not. Come and learn more about your body and mind, exploring ways to improve together.