Embodied Neurobiology offers two courses (6 credits) of Movement Observation:
Elements of Movement I: Human Movement Analysis
This course introduces basic concepts and principles of systems of movement observation including Laban/Bartenieff Effort/Shape Movement Analysis and the Kestenberg Movement Profile. Reflecting on the context in which these systems were developed and applied, the course considers how sociocultural awareness is relevant to the ethical application of movement observation in practice today. Students explore their own movement expression, identify their own movement preferences, and develop skills in applications of movement analysis that assist therapeutic assessment and treatment.
Elements of Movement II: Human Movement Observation
This course introduces foundational principles that guide ethical and inclusive practices of movement observation and assessment in the practice of dance/movement therapy. The co-creative process of the therapeutic movement relationship, engaging the mover’s perspective, guides the learning process. Through embodied exploration, documentation and reflection on their own movement preferences, students develop clinical skills in socioculturally informed assessment. Approaches to observation and assessment are inspired by three systtems: Body/Mind Centering (Body Systems and Basie Neurological Patterns), and Effort/Shape Movement Analysis.
Clinical, educational and creative applications of the material include:
Supporting positive attachment dynamics through embodied attunement and nonverbal communication.
Facilitating optimal learning and attentional states.
Utilizing methods of notation for assessment, treatment planning and self awareness.
Engaging movement resources for renewal and inspiration.
Participant comments:
“On the last two days when all of our learning had culminated and we were able to share our own movement experiences and our professional applications….it truly felt like I had access to a ton of information that I hadn’t realized that I had, and I am excited to learn and apply more.”
“Listening to everyone else share how these movement elements applied to their personal and professional lives was incredibly meaningful and served as more than just information shared, but a springboard from which I wish to launch myself much further into this.”
“It is often difficult for me to go deeply into the right side of my brain with my body and then back into the left side with my language, but this class provided a wonderful and satisfying opportunity to bridge the two. I tasted the movement elements in my body and developed a deeper understanding of attention, intention, and decision-making.”
