Learning from Trees - 10 - Uncurl like a Seedling, Unfurl Like a Leaf
maple leaf ready to open
germinating seed source wikipedia
Learning from Trees - 10 - Uncurling Like A Seedling, Unfurling Like A Leaf
Arching the back like a seed growing, a leaf ready to spread out
Based on “Spine Like a Chain” by Moshe Feldenkrais
The human
Our spines can teach us something about how seedlings and leaves open and grow. This cross species lesson takes it to the center, with the classic “spine like a chain” lesson to explore the feeling of opening, growing upward. Take your choice of analog; a seedling uncurling or a leaf unfurling. The mechanics will be similar.
This lesson was suggested by my sister Feldenkrais wizards, who offered brilliant suggestions on additional lessons for this series. So - even at lesson 10, we aren’t done. Look forward to opening like a blossom and releasing leaves in autumn.
Science Nerd Candy Bowl:
Field Maple leaf budding timelapse - The Woodland Trust (0:32)
Apple Tree Growing from Seed - Time Lapse 177 Days - Boxlapse (1:56)
Flexion and Extension of the Spine -@AnatomyApp (0:42)
Set up for supine lesson:
Mat on floor with support for knees and head as needed
Seated on a chair with knees and hips level
How you might feel after this lesson: Feel the support and flexibility of the spine as the front of the body expands and opens; Experience gradual unfurling of the spine as a model for the process of plants growing upward and out; A moment of relationship with nature and trees?