Samuel H. Nelson, Ph.D.
Guild Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner
A graduate of the Toronto Professional Feldenkrais Training Program (1987), Sam has maintained an active practice in Rochester, New York since 1987. He offers Awareness Through Movement classes and Functional Integration sessions by appointment.
Holding a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies from UW-Madison, Sam is a co-author of 'Singing with Your Whole Self' and 'The Feldenkrais Method for Instrumentalists,' demonstrating his deep commitment to movement awareness and performance excellence.



What is Feldenkrais?
The Feldenkrais Method is a self-discovery process using movement to help individuals perform with minimum effort and maximum efficiency. This organic learning style, reminiscent of early childhood development, offers an open-ended process for refining mobility through simple, exploratory movements. These sequences are repeated to clarify performance, focusing entirely on the 'how'—the quality and awareness of the action—rather than speed or strain. By starting exactly where a person is, the method encourages moving strictly within a range of comfort to enhance ease and coordination naturally.
Student Testimonials
"As a lifelong athlete, primarily in horseback riding, I feel that working with Sam for over 25 years has been my 'Fountain of Youth."
Susan Strong Kelley, Level 3Â Centered Riding Clinician
"Sam told me that I’d sleep better, eat less and start forgetting my cane, and it all happened."
Steve B, Stroke Survivor
"My neck moves like it never has before. And actually my voice and resonance is deeper too. I really appreciate all your help."
Mike F, Student
Publications


Singing with Your Whole Self
The Feldenkrais Method for Instrumentalists
A Singer’s Guide to Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement, coauthored with Samuel H. Nelson, Ph.D. Published by Rowman and Littlefield, 2018.
A Guide to Awareness to Movement, providing essential insights for performers to enhance mobility and precision. Published by Rowman and Littlefield, 2024.