THE FRIDA METHOD® INSTITUTE FOR NEURODEVELOPMENT
INTELLIGENT BODY
The Frida Method® has established 12 Frida-Foundationals movements designed for neuromuscular reeducation rooted in early developmental patterns. These are embodied in various movement ideologies, including ballet and swimming, and significantly contribute to rehabilitation.
Intelligent Body Program
The 12 Frida Foundationals encompass primitive reflexes, sensory awareness, developmental movement, body systems, and spatial concepts. We draw inspiration from Irmgard Bartenieff, a physical therapist who worked with polio patients and emphasized the individual's experience of coping with sudden changes in functionality and self-image. Her work revealed the importance of restoring movement patterns governed by the central nervous system, rather than merely addressing peripheral muscle issues.
The Frida-Foundationals are not a rigid set of exercises, but a dynamic approach to body re-patterning and reeducation. They incorporate principles of anatomical function and psychophysiological expression as integral to body mobilization. As Bartenieff noted, “Body movement is not a symbol for expression; it is the expression.” The functional and expressive aspects of movement are interwoven in the human experience.
Neuromuscular re-patterning focuses on retraining the brain and spinal cord for both voluntary and reflex motor activities. By applying basic principles of neuromuscular physiology, we aim to treat injuries and restore neuromuscular control. Our program features manual therapeutic techniques performed by a trained practitioner using Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), alongside activities that enhance balance, core stability, and normal movement patterns.
Re-patterning is a concept utilized across various fields, such as genetics, molecular biology, neurology, psychology, and rehabilitation. Since its introduction by Dr. Thomas Hanna in 1976, re-patterning has been central to the field of somatics. According to the International Somatic Movement Education and Therapy Association (ISMETA), it is a neurophysiological approach to neuromuscular reeducation that emphasizes harmonious movement, sensory awareness, and mindfulness. Neuromuscular re-patterning fosters improved motor responses.
The Institute for Health highlights that neuromuscular re-patterning relates to the modulation of afferent and efferent pathways. This terminology is particularly relevant in somatic movement education and therapeutic practices focused on injury prevention and rehabilitation.
Structures of the Subcortical Brain
All movement originates in the nervous system, not the muscles. Intention initiates movement, while the nervous system regulates and monitors every action. This coordination occurs at the subcortical level of the brain.
As noted, “There can be no movement, free or constrained, without muscular activity,” and “There can be no muscular activity without neurostimulation.” The specific quality of each muscular action is activated by both the central and peripheral nervous systems.
Every instance of muscular rigidity carries the history and significance of its origin. Its release not only liberates energy but also reawakens the emotional context of the repression.
Our approach to enhancing postural alignment and fluidity of movement employs a variety of protocols to facilitate changes in muscle and brain patterns:
Ideokinesis: Pioneered by innovators like Lulu Sweigard, Mabel Todd, Andre Bernard, Irene Dowd, and Erik Hawkins, this approach recognizes movement as a neuromuscular-skeletal event. The nervous system initiates and controls movement, stimulating the muscles to engage the skeleton. Imagined movement promotes changes in subcortical neuromuscular coordination.
Programs We Offer
In-Office Session 12 Frida Foundationals
This program offers optimal outcomes for individuals experiencing chronic postural injuries, acute injuries or surgeries that heal slowly, and traumatic events that compromise functional integrity. We work closely with clients to regain strength, mobility, and grace, ideally through sessions once or twice a week, involving manual input while clothed on a massage table. This manual therapy addresses primitive reflexes, muscle and skeletal alignment, sensory awareness, and developmental movement patterns, exploring 1-2 foundational movements per session. Clients receive a clear home program designed to maintain progress between sessions, along with weekly educational handouts and assignments.
Intensive 3-Day Model
International clients are welcome to visit for intensive sessions spanning 3-5 days, with tailored home programs provided to support progress between visits. Virtual support via Zoom is also available.
Telehealth Education for International & Out-of-State Families
The 12 Frida foundational movements are offered in a comprehensive 15-week Zoom educational program, featuring 7 support sessions. This program includes extensive reading and education on primitive reflexes, developmental movement, and how sensory awareness can enhance overall function and range of motion.
