Sometimes in life, we find ourselves on a path we never anticipated, but one that feels like it was meant for us all along. Alan Simon Questel’s story is a perfect example of this fortuitous path. Alan started out as a passionate actor but soon found his way into the “Feldenkrais Method,” a somatic educational approach that uses gentle movement and awareness to enhance physical functioning and self-awareness, in which he discovered new ways to help others unlock their potential. His expedition is not just about career shifts but about listening to life’s subtle cues and following where they lead, even if it means venturing into the unknown.
Alan Simon Questel was born on April 28, 1953, in New York City, NY. Growing up in the vibrant and dynamic environment of New York, Alan was exposed to a world brimming with artistic and intellectual opportunities. His early education took him through public schools in New York City, where he demonstrated a keen interest in the arts and humanities.
In 1971, Questel began his academic journey at Hunter College, where he pursued studies that would later inform his artistic and professional pursuits. His time at Hunter College laid the groundwork for his creative aspirations. Following his initial college experience, Questel spent a season at the Brattleboro Center for the Performing Arts in Brattleboro, VT, further fueling his passion for acting and performance.
Questel’s formal training in acting came at S.U.N.Y. College at Purchase, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the Acting Conservatory between 1974 and 1977. Questel’s expedition into the Feldenkrais Method began after his acting career introduced him to new realms of personal exploration.
In the early 1980s, Questel began his formal training in the Feldenkrais Method, studying under Dr. Feldenkrais himself. This took him to Amherst, MA, and Tel Aviv, Israel, where he immersed himself in the principles and practices of the method. Completing his training between 1980 and 1983, Questel emerged as a Guild Certified Practitioner and a member of the Feldenkrais Guild.
He began his practice in New York City, known for its vibrant and professional landscape. Despite the challenges, Questel’s dedication to the Feldenkrais Method and his ability to convey its benefits to clients helped him build a reputation as a skilled and compassionate practitioner. As Questel’s practice grew, he relocated to Marin County, California, where he continued to develop his expertise and expand his client base.
In the early 1990s, Questel made another pivotal move to Santa Fe, New Mexico. The serene and inspiring environment of Santa Fe provided the perfect backdrop for Questel’s continued exploration of the Feldenkrais Method. In Santa Fe, he established a thriving practice and continued to contribute to the Feldenkrais community through workshops and training programs.
Questel’s move to Santa Fe also marked a period of significant professional growth. He began to develop and lead Feldenkrais Professional Training Programs as an Educational Director and a Trainer. These programs, designed to train new Feldenkrais practitioners, have been conducted in various locations worldwide, including New York, Australia, Colombia, Sweden, and more.
Questel contributed to somatic education through his writings and innovative programs. His book, Creating Creativity – Embodying the Creative Process, explores the intersection of creativity and movement, offering insights into how the Feldenkrais Method can enhance artistic expression. Questel introduced Pregnant Pauses – Movement for Moms in 2010, a specialized program designed to support pregnant women through the Feldenkrais Method. Questel has also created a library of 22 audio sets of workshops in the Feldenkrais Method. These audio programs provide accessible resources for individuals interested in exploring the Feldenkrais Method from the comfort of their homes.
In his book Practice Intentional Acts of Kindness…and Like Yourself More, Alan Questel explores the impact of kindness and self-compassion on personal well-being. This book integrates the principles of the Feldenkrais Method with practices designed to foster greater self-love and empathy towards others and yourself.
Questel’s teaching experience extends beyond his role as an Educational Director. He has been involved in various educational settings, including the New York Open Center, The East-West Institute for Holistic Studies, and The New Actors Workshop. Questel has taught and trained practitioners in countries globally, including Canada, Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Sweden, and Australia.
Alan Questel’s contributions to the Feldenkrais Method are also reflected in his extensive work. His publications include books, chapters, and journal articles that explore various aspects of the Feldenkrais Method and its applications. Notable works include Movement for Actors, which probes into applying the Feldenkrais Method in the context of acting, and articles in journals such as The Feldenkrais Journal and Feldenkrais Zeit.
Alan Simon Questel’s travels from acting to the Feldenkrais Method are a testament to the power of transformation and personal growth. His dedication to exploring and sharing the Feldenkrais Method has impacted the lives of many individuals, both through his practice and his educational programs. Questel’s story is an inspiring example of how passion and dedication can lead to meaningful change and contribute to the well-being of others.
