The Franklin Method
A Different Approach to Guided Imagery
The Franklin Method increases body awareness, corrects posture, strengthens bones and muscles and improves athletic performance. Just one session can work miracles. Although there is nothing new in using imagery and visualization to improve posture and performance, the Franklin Method uses this technique in a very personal way.
Eric Franklin
Developed around 25 years ago by Swiss-born Eric Franklin, the method is now used around the world and its devotees include the London Royal Ballet School, the Music Conservatory in Vienna, numerous athletes and dancers worldwide, along with yoga and Pilates instructors.
Guided Imagery
The concept behind the Franklin Method is to focus on what the client is thinking or picturing while exercising to help him do it in the correct way from an anatomy point of view. For example, if you have negative images or resentful feelings and distracted thoughts while doing The Hundred in Pilates or a Downward Dog in yoga, you will be charging your body with negative energy. As a result you may tire quickly and not get the most out of the exercise or pose.
Using the Franklin Method you start with guided imagery before doing any movement so you can align your body in a new way by feeling and visualizing the experience. Most instructors work with individuals to come up with a personalized visual image. For example, many people lift their shoulders to their ears while performing The Hundred putting strain on the neck and shoulder area. Using the image of a string pulling gently and lifting the head may help release tightness in the shoulder area.
The Franklin Institute
Franklin created this method using a combination of experience and intuition. After studying acting and dance he moved to New York where he obtained an MFA in dance at the Tish School. He was inspired by a deepened awareness that the images we create directly affect the way we move our muscles. He founded his institute in Switzerland in 1984 and since then has written numerous books on his method. His latest work focuses on the relationship between Pilates and the Franklin Method.
Training in the Franklin Method
Anyone wanting to train in the technique must attend at least one full day Franklin Method workshop. After that if you decide you want to become a practitioner you need to register for three series of courses: introductory, intermediate and advanced. The idea is to complete one level a year. There are currently around 400 certified Franklin Method teachers worldwide. Find out more go to Franklin Method.com.
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