Description:

Experiential Anatomy is an approach to bodywork that cultivates embodiment. It is applied in diverse fields including performance practice and training, creative processes, arts education and therapy. With mindfulness embedded in its approach, this experiential workshop will introduce participants to the method. The notion of embodying anatomical structures, such as sensory organs and the skeleton, will be introduced through movement improvisation, partnering exercises, touch and mindful practice. The relevance and application of experiential anatomy to creative work that represents the body, such as performance, will also be discussed.

Keywords:

performance, somatics, experiential anatomy

Objectives (hour):

1. Experiential anatomy in performance: Contextualising practice
2. Exploring anatomical structures: Physiology and Movement Improvisation
3. Exploring anatomical structures: Improvisation and partnering

Prerequisites/advisable prior knowledge:

n/a.

Evaluation feedback:

Submission of reflective writing task.

Recommended reading list:

• Bainbridge Cohen, B. (1993) Sensing Feeling and Action: The Experiential Anatomy of Body-Mind Centering, Northampton MA: Contact Editions
• Buckwalter, M. (2010) Composing While Dancing: An Improviser’s Companion, USA: The University of Wisconsin Press
• Hartley, L. (2004) Somatic Psychology: Body, Mind and Meaning. London: Whurr Publishers Ltd
• Hartley, L. (2005) Seeking a Sense of Self: The Integration of Authentic Movement, and the Body-Mind Centering® Approach to Developmental Therapy, in Body Psychotherapy Practice
• Meehan, E. (2011) 'Somatic Practices as Creative and Therapeutic Tools'. [online] Inside Out: The Journal for the Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy. 63
http://iahip.org/inside-out/issue-63-spring-2011/somatic-practices-as-creative-and-therapeutic-tools [12 August 2014]
• Miller, G.M, Ethridge, P., Morgan, K.T. (2011) Exploring Body-Mind Centering: An Anthology of Experience and Method. Berkeley, California: North Atlantic Books
• Olsen, A., McHose, C. (2004) Bodystories: A Guide to Experiential Anatomy. UPNE
• Olsen, A., McHose, C. (2014) The Place of Dance: A Somatic Guide to Dancing and Dance Making. Wesleyan University Press
• Tufnell, M. & Crickmay, C. (2004) A Widening Field: Journeys in Body and Imagination. Hampshire: Dance Books