Research Somatics Essay

Research somatics. Choose an approach that fits into somatics and research it. (Example Alexander Technique). Choose a minimum of 5 points to explain the theory and practice. How does this approach connect to dance? Chosen approach: Ideokinesis - idea (ideo) and movement (kinesis)
Ideokinesis uses imagery and visualizations to improve posture and movement itself. Dictionary definition: ideokinesis is the process of using mental imagery to “affect the body’s postural alignment in order to bring it into greater equilibrium.”
The one distinctive factor that separates ideokinesis from other body awareness practices is that is involves envisioning movement or an analogy to movement with the mind.
The hypothesis behind this is that instead of
An example of ideokinesis in practice:
Recovering from an injury → ideokinesis was actually created for this purpose. Mabel Elsworth Todd was told by doctors that she would never walk again. Nevertheless she was determined to prove them wrong. Using the power of the mind and imagery she was able to improve her physical condition substantially.
Posture and alignment →
Lulu Edith Sweigard condensed Todd’s findings and came up with “The Nine Lines of Movement” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6B2KZQBO1Wk lengthen the spine downward shorten distance between mid front pelvis and 12th thoracic vertebra from top of the sternum to top of the spine narrow the rib cage widen the back of the pelvis narrow the front of the pelvis from center of knee to center of femoral joint from big toe to heel lengthen the central axis of the trunk upward
Connection to dance: posture is a pivotal aspect of dance technique and ideokinesis can be used to improve the posture, alignment and overall ease of movement of a dancer. This method is also beneficial in preventing injuries and increasing a sense of body