What is Lebed Method?
The Lebed Method, Focus on Healing through Movement and Dance is a therapeutic exercise and movement programme originally established for those with breast cancer to help regain and maintain range of motion, balance, both physically and emotionally.
It was developed by Sherry Lebed Davis, a Movement Specialist, and by Dr. Marc Lebed and Dr Joel Lebed in 1980 at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was one of the first Hospital based programmes of its kind and one of the first published studies based on Physical Therapy and Dance in the surgical management of breast cancer.
What is it and how does it work?
The Lebed Method introduced exercises to their programme that would help open the Lymphatic system, helping to reduce the risk of Lymphoedema and swelling caused by Lymphoedema. Since its inception the programme has benefited not only those with breast cancer but many types of chronic illness including upper and lower extremity Lymphoedema and other physical problems such ad frozen shoulder.
How does the treatment/therapy/product work? What does it involve?
Lymphodema specialists may give 1:1 sessions with their clients; teaching the lymphatic opening sequence to enhance an MLD treatment.Classes are usually taught in courses of 6 or 8 weeks. This method of exercise concentrates on the lymphatic system, range of motion and balance whilst providing all round fitness and emotional well being.
What happens during a treatment or session?
A class will be between 1–1.15 hours. You are recommended to wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes. Music is an important element of every class. All exercises are done to music of many styles and some have an element of dance about them. Sometimes props are used to enhance the movement or style, they may include balls, boas, Hats or poles/canes. There is an emphasis on fun while working therapeutically. Each class starts with a lymphatic opening sequence, which is key to the Lebed Method programme with gentle slow, smooth movements that are completed with an element of resistance. Water breaks are scheduled for the body to rest and for class interaction. All movements can be done seated if required and no exercises are done on the floor.
Who and what it is good for?
All ages and both men and women can enjoy and benefit from the class- although some may be gender specific.. There is a separate Children’s programme. If you are extremely fit this may not be for you. Although developed for breast cancer and lymphodema, it is good for any chronic illness, arthritis. M E, MS, Parkinson’s, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia., may be helpful for RSI and frozen shoulder, it is gentle and anyone can participate at their own fitness level. Excellent for those recovering from cancer ,living with chronic illness, recovery from illness, or poor health. Great support for a detox programmeit will support weight reduction programmes, or for anyone who needs some fun, exercise and timeout.
Who is it not good for and what can the side effects be?
A health form will be completed at the beginning of the first session. Participants who have recently undergone surgery will need to inform the instructor and may need to wait before starting a class. Certain medication may require a doctors letter in order to participate. The exercises are gentle in approach but you may feel some effects from stretching for a couple of days following a class if you are new to exercise.
How much will it cost?
Class cost will vary according to area and location of the class. Some will be free.
A few facts
Although the method was developed for those with chronic illness it is fantastic for general fitness, or when over coming an illness, depression or generally unfit and need to ease into exercise gently.. The Lebed Method is working with your lymphatic system, assisting removal of toxins and enhancing your immune system.
Lebed Method instructors are registered with The Lebed Method and their details will appear on the website, (Below) Only instructors on the website are currently registered to teach.
This information has been provided by Julia Williams CertEd ; Lebed Method Instructor (CLMC), and Lebed Method Teacher Trainer CLMTA. Julia teaches classes in London, instructor training UK and Ireland.. Contact julia-williams@lineone.net
www.thelebedmethod.com