Another Light

Dear Reader,

Another light has gone out. Mia Segal left this world Saturday morning, February 15. It’s a bright, sunny day here, and for that I’m grateful. Nonetheless, for some moments the world seems a little darker and heavier.

Mia Segal was extraordinary. Among many other things, she was Moshe Feldenkrais’s assistant and collaborator. She introduced his method to countless individuals, many of whom went on to be practitioners. Many things made her special in my eyes. Her humor, her incredible insight, her equanimity, her presence. One friend described her as uncompromising. She was also charismatic, charming, fun—and direct.

She told me more than once—perhaps I’m a bit slow at times—to soften my hands. I’m not known for being rough with my hands, but I think they’re softer after learning from Mia. Sensitive enough to be both soft and direct. An interesting combination. And I’m still working on getting softer—and clearer.

“Gooood morning!” or “Gooood afternoon,” would be the signal that lessons were about to start. Followed by, “Please lie on your back.” And then we were in for a treat. I still begin to relax—not to say salivate—when I hear those words. An opportunity to pay attention to my body and myself, with Mia spotlighting things I might never have noticed otherwise.

Many times in Feldenkrais lessons, we’re encouraged to stay within a nice, easy comfort range. But Mia could see when it was possible to go bigger, and she’d ask, “Who’s in charge? Who’s the boss? Who said you could only move this much?”

Occasionally she’d say, “You can do better than that.” And she was right. We could. I’m not sure how she knew, but it was clear that she did, and something shifted. Every now and then, I think of those words, smile, and say them to my students, or to myself.

As much as I already miss her, I am full of appreciation for having met her and studied with her. I’d like to think that I carry forward some of her light and spirit as I share with others.

Mia Segal was a blessing in my life, and in the lives of so many others. May her memory be a blessing.

I’d love for you to join me, and lie on your back. Our Tuesday online Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement lesson is still Free/Pay as You Wish.

If you’d like to work with me privately, you can Book an Appointment for a Feldenkrais or Coaching session, or for a free consult. You can even set up a time for a private, or semi-private felting session. Or you can simply reply to this email and let me know what’s most interesting to you.

May you find many blessings and much light in the days ahead.