The Science Behind the Method
NeuroRefinement is built on decades of peer-reviewed neuroplasticity research, the clinical innovations of the Anat Baniel Method, and the foundational work of Mosh\u00e9 Feldenkrais. This page collects the science that informs everything we do.
“Scientists have defined the ‘rules’ governing brain plasticity. Anat Baniel, working in parallel along a completely different path, has defined almost exactly the same rules in practical and understandable human terms.” — Dr. Michael Merzenich, PhD, Winner of the 2016 Kavli Prize in Neuroscience
Key Studies & Publications
Published research on ABM NeuroMovement, the Feldenkrais Method, and the neuroplasticity science that underpins brain-based movement learning.
Baniel A, Almagor E, Sharp N, Kolumbus O, Herbert MR (2025) — Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience
From fixing to connecting — developing mutual empathy guided through movement as a novel path for the discovery of better outcomes in autism
Landmark paper presenting the theoretical foundation of both the Feldenkrais Method and ABM NeuroMovement as brain-based, empathy-driven approaches for autism — fundamentally different from conventional "fix the deficit" interventions.
Baniel A (2013) — Global Advances in Health and Medicine, 2(Suppl), 11
Leveraging the Power of the Brain to Change Itself to Transform Clinical Outcomes With Adults and Children With Special Needs With the Anat Baniel Method
Introduces the Nine Essentials framework and how ABM shifts the clinical focus from "fixing" deficits to "connecting" with the brain. Includes Michael Merzenich's endorsement of ABM's alignment with neuroplasticity science.
Naserizadeh S (2023) — Journal of Disability Studies
Determining Effectiveness of Anat Baniel Neuro-Motor Intervention on Stereotyped Behavior and Social Interactions in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Research demonstrating measurable improvements in stereotyped behavior and social interactions in children with ASD following ABM-based neuro-motor intervention.
Merzenich MM, Jenkins WM, Johnston P, Schreiner C, Miller SL, Tallal P (1996) — Science, 271:77–84
Temporal processing deficits of language-learning impaired children ameliorated by training
Foundational neuroplasticity research by Michael Merzenich demonstrating that the brain can reorganize in response to training — the scientific bedrock underlying all brain-based movement methods including ABM.
Reese M (via Donna Ray) (2023) — Donna Ray / Feldenkrais Southern California Movement Institute
The Feldenkrais Method and Dynamic System Principles
Mark Reese's influential analysis of how the Feldenkrais Method embodies dynamic systems theory — the scientific framework for understanding how new movement patterns emerge through exploration rather than instruction.
Verrel J, Almagor E, Schumann F, Lindenberger U, Kühn S (2015) — Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 9
Changes in neural resting state activity in primary and higher-order motor areas induced by a short sensorimotor intervention based on the Feldenkrais Method
Brain imaging study using fMRI showing measurable neural changes in motor areas after Feldenkrais Functional Integration sessions — direct evidence that these gentle, awareness-based methods change the brain.
Palmer CF (2017) — Gerontology & Geriatric Medicine, Volume 3
Feldenkrais Movement Lessons Improve Older Adults' Awareness, Comfort, and Function
Study showing that Awareness Through Movement lessons improve self-awareness, physical comfort, and daily function in older adults — directly relevant to NeuroRefinement's work with aging and fall prevention.
Books That Inform Our Practice
These books shaped NeuroRefinement\u2019s approach. Essential reading for understanding brain-based movement learning.
Kids Beyond Limits
Baniel A (2012)
Foreword by Michael Merzenich, PhD. Practical guide to using the Nine Essentials with children with special needs — cerebral palsy, autism, developmental delays, and more.
Find on AmazonMove Into Life: The Nine Essentials for Lifelong Vitality
Baniel A (2009)
The foundational book on applying the Nine Essentials for adults seeking vitality, pain relief, and peak performance.
Find on AmazonAwareness Through Movement: Health Exercises for Personal Growth
Feldenkrais M (1972)
The original text that launched the Feldenkrais Method — foundational to ABM NeuroMovement and all brain-based movement education.
Find on AmazonBody and Mature Behavior: A Study of Anxiety, Sex, Gravitation and Learning
Feldenkrais M (1949)
Feldenkrais's most scientific work — connecting physics, neuroscience, and movement education decades before mainstream science caught up.
Find on AmazonThe Brain's Way of Healing: Remarkable Discoveries and Recoveries from the Frontiers of Neuroplasticity
Doidge N (2015)
Features a detailed chapter on the Feldenkrais Method. Excellent introduction to neuroplasticity for general audiences.
Find on AmazonSoft-Wired: How the New Science of Brain Plasticity Can Change Your Life
Merzenich MM (2013)
The definitive guide to brain plasticity by the scientist who endorses Anat Baniel's Nine Essentials as practical neuroplasticity.
Find on AmazonAdditional Resources & Databases
9 Essentials — Research References (PDF)
Official compilation of Merzenich and other neuroscience papers (1992–1999) supporting each of the Nine Essentials.
ABM NeuroMovement — Supporting Research
Anat Baniel Method's curated research page with links to neuroplasticity studies, children with special needs outcomes, and movement learning science.
Donna Ray — Feldenkrais Southern California Movement Institute
Internationally known Feldenkrais Practitioner, Trainer, and Licensed Psychotherapist with 40+ years of experience. One of Dr. Feldenkrais's earliest American students.
Feldenkrais Method — Research & Scholarly Resources
The Feldenkrais Guild's comprehensive database of 500+ articles, journal papers, and PhD theses.
PubMed: Feldenkrais Method
79+ peer-reviewed articles on the Feldenkrais Method in the National Library of Medicine.
Cerebral Palsy Guidance: ABM & NeuroMovement
Medically reviewed overview of how ABM NeuroMovement can benefit children with cerebral palsy.
Committed to Evidence-Based Practice
As a certified Anat Baniel Method practitioner, I stay current with the evolving research on neuroplasticity, motor learning, and brain-based rehabilitation. This page will be updated as new studies are published.
Have a research paper or resource to suggest? I'd love to hear about it.
Disclaimer: The research cited on this page is provided for educational purposes only. NeuroRefinement provides wellness education and movement-based learning, not medical diagnosis or treatment. The Anat Baniel Method and Feldenkrais Method are educational practices, not substitutes for medical care. Always consult qualified healthcare providers for medical concerns. CliftonStrengths® is a registered trademark of Gallup, Inc. ABM NeuroMovement® is a registered trademark of Anat Baniel Method, Inc.