From the Editors
How do you regain vitality after a long period of inactivity?
In this issue of SenseAbility, we consider the challenges involved in charting a course back towards activity in these kinds of situations. When your health has been significantly compromised, a measured approach is necessary for recovery to be lasting. Yet, the desire to return to what feels like a normal pace of life can lead to impatience that undermines this attitude. Meanwhile, long-term inactivity takes a toll not only on the body, but also mental health.
This month's contributors take up these questions from a variety of angles. Dwight Pargee, a Feldenkrais® practitioner and Assistant Trainer with nearly 3 decades of experience, was interviewed by SenseAbility editor Seth Dellinger. In addition to describing his work with clients, Dwight shares his personal story of suffering a spinal injury 5 years ago that caused him to lose the use of his legs and what he has done since that time to regain function. Eleanor Montaño is a Feldenkrais practitioner who also found herself battling inactivity when she contracted "Long Covid." In her article, she talks about how the philosophy of the Feldnenkrais Method of somatic education helped her to define what she could and could not do and chart a course back towards greater activity. Seth Dellinger contributes an article about his work for many years with a bed-ridden client in a health care facility and what this situation taught him about the deep humanity of the Feldenkrais Method.
We hope you find inspiration in these stories.
Jane, Joe and Seth