CLASS SERIES

Neuro-Somatic Variations (NSV): Body Schema & Body Image
with Dr. Hillel Braude

Six Thursdays, bi-weekly February 12–April 23, 2026 • 2-4pm Eastern U.S. time
Find your local time here.

The registration deadline is February 5, 2026. 

Live participation is strongly encouraged. However, if you are unable to attend, the recording will be available to all who have registered for the course.

The Neuro-Somatic Variations (NSV) approach developed by Dr Hillel Braude integrates Feldenkrais lessons, interpersonal neurobiology, and philosophical phenomenology in a small group context. Each session is comprised of a Feldenkrais based lesson followed by group discussion. NSV sessions differ from typical Feldenkrais lessons in terms of the following elements: a.) The expanded conception of awareness; b.) Explicit didactic references to neurobiological correlations; c.) The phenomenological analysis of pre-reflective experience; d.) The small group context supporting discussion and analysis. This specialized online NSV Series will focus on the theme of Body Image & Body Schema. A conceptual distinction exists between Body Image & Body Schema which has engaged neurologists, psychiatrists and phenomenologically informed philosophers. Attaining a fuller understanding of Body Schema & Body Image requires both conceptual (top-down) and experiential (bottom-up) work as exemplified by the NSV process. 

This NSV class series developing top-down conceptual and bottom-up experiential understanding and awareness of body schema and body image can be highly useful for somatic practitioners coming from different backgrounds. Participants can adapt their insights from this workshop to their own somatic practices and disciplines as well as with their individual clients. This workshop may also be deeply therapeutic at a personal level in terms of improving mental and physical well-being. Participation in the NSV series workshop is likely to elicit meaningful pre-reflective thoughts and experiences in the context of a supportive small-group environment. Participants will also learn new concepts and language from phenomenological philosophy that can enrich their somatic teaching and education. 

LEARNING GOALS FROM THE FULL COURSE INCLUDE:

• Exploring the difference between body schema and body image through Feldenkrais-based movement lessons
• Understanding the difference between body schema and body image in terms of neurology, psychiatry and phenomenological philosophy
• Learning to integrate top-down conceptual material with bottom-up somatic practices

 Sign up for the Free Introduction and receive a COUPON CODE for a $50 discount on the full course!

Dr. Hillel Braude

Ph.D., MSME, MSTAT

Hillel Braude MBBCh Phd is an Integrative Medicine Doctor,  Feldenkrais Method Somatic Education Practitioner, and Philosopher of Medicine. Hillel has studied EastWest Somatics with Sandra Fraleigh and is currently training in Dynamic Embodiment with Martha Eddy. Hillel completed his medical training at the University of Cape Town and obtained his doctorate in philosophy at the University of Chicago. Hillel has trained as a Clinical Ethicist with the University of Chicago's MacLean Center's Center for Clinical Ethics. He has completed Post-Doctorate Fellowships in Neuroethics with McGill University's Biomedical Ethics Unit and Religious Studies Faculty.

Hillel is the founder-director of the SomaticWell Center integrating somatic practices and neurotechnologies for physical, mental & spiritual wellbeing. Hillel has a special focus on supporting infants and children with neurodevelopmental conditions - especially autism, attention deficit disorders, and emotional dysregulation.

Hillel has published extensively in the field of Neuroethics, Somatics, and Philosophy of Medicine.  Hillel sits on the board of the International Feldenkrais Federation (IFF) Journal and Research Working Committee. Hillel continues researching somatic practices and specific processes and outcomes associated with hands-on therapeutic work.

Course Information