Who said Movement is good for us?

3 min read

In my opinion, movement shouldn't need theory to prove itself. We are the evidence. Ever noticed that buzz after exercise, or the flow state you enter on a long and beautiful hike? The presence and stillness you feel internally from being  engaged externally? Even if you aren't super adventurous or active, even tapping a foot or nodding to music feels right. Movement big or small supports us to merge with a rhythm, a pattern, and move from thinking loops to body activation. Nevertheless there are many influential figures and theorists within the practice of somatic movement, evidencing its' benefits in therapeutic settings. If like me proof and research motivates you, here's just a slice of it. Too many to put into one space, I've narrowed down to a few...

Rudolf Laban and  Movement Analysis and Expressive Movement Theory

Also known as LMA (Laban Movement Analysis), Laban’s theory provides an extensive framework for examining and classifying movement based on factors like effort, shape, space, and dynamics. Laban’s work highlighted the link between movement and human expression, forming the foundation for somatic practices in both dance and therapy. LMA offers valuable tools for understanding how movement mirrors emotional and psychological states, making this choreographer/dancer/movement theorists’ work invaluable contributions crucial to dance therapy as well as education.

Mary Whitehouse  and Authentic Movement and its’ role in dance therapies

Mary Whitehouse’s Authentic Movement is a dance therapy approach that emphasises connecting deeply with one’s inner self through movement. Developed in the 1950s, this practice centres on spontaneous, mindful movement, encouraging participants to follow their internal impulses without external judgment or predefined choreography.

In Authentic Movement, one person, the "mover," moves freely with their eyes closed, while another, the "witness," observes without interpreting or evaluating the movements. Afterward, the witness shares their observations, offering the mover a chance to reflect on their experience. This process creates a safe, nonverbal space to explore emotions, thoughts, and unconscious material, fostering a deep connection between the body and mind.

Authentic Movement is an important tool in dance therapy, offering a therapeutic environment for self-exploration and emotional release. It helps individuals become more attuned to their bodies, aiding in the healing and integration of emotional and psychological experiences. Through the practice, participants can uncover hidden emotions, gain insight into their inner states, and experience a sense of embodiment, supporting personal growth and self-awareness.

Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen  and Body-Mind Centering and its connection to sensory awareness

Bonnie Bainbridge developed Body-Mind Centering, a method that merges movement with developmental patterns. Her work delves into the physical embodiment of movement and the exploration of the body’s various systems, such as the skeletal, muscular, and cellular structures. Cohen's teachings emphasise how these interconnected body systems influence movement and self-expression.