Authentic Movement

Authentic Movement is a form of dance therapy or movement therapy that emphasizes self-exploration through movement. It was developed in the late 20th century, drawing on principles from Carl Jung's depth psychology and Mary Starks Whitehouse's exploration of movement as a mode of psychological exploration. Authentic Movement offers a unique approach to personal and collective exploration, emphasizing the importance of the body as a source of knowledge and insight.

Overview

Authentic Movement is practiced in a simple setting, often with a group of participants and a facilitator. The process typically involves a division between "movers" and "witnesses." Movers close their eyes and move in whatever ways feel instinctive, focusing inwardly and allowing their movements to arise without planning or intention. Witnesses observe the movers with an attitude of non-judgmental presence, offering a supportive space for the movers to explore their inner experiences through physical expression.

History

The roots of Authentic Movement can be traced back to the work of Mary Starks Whitehouse, a dance therapist who, in the 1950s, began integrating Carl Jung's concepts of the unconscious and active imagination into her work with movement. Whitehouse's pioneering approach, initially termed "movement in depth," laid the groundwork for what would later evolve into Authentic Movement. Over the decades, other practitioners and theorists, such as Janet Adler and Joan Chodorow, have contributed to the development and refinement of the practice, each adding their own perspectives and insights.

Principles

The core principles of Authentic Movement include:

• Movement Initiated from Within: Encouraging participants to move based on internal impulses rather than external forms or choreography.
• The Role of the Witness: Emphasizing the importance of having one or more witnesses as an integral part of the process, providing a container for the mover's experience.
• The Inner Witness: Developing an internal witness within the mover, fostering a mindful awareness of one's own movement and inner experiences.
• Non-judgmental Presence: Both movers and witnesses are encouraged to adopt an attitude of openness and non-judgment towards all experiences and expressions.

Applications

Authentic Movement is used in various settings, including psychotherapy, dance education, and personal growth workshops. It has been applied therapeutically for individuals seeking to deepen self-awareness, explore emotional or psychological issues, and enhance creativity. In educational contexts, it can offer students a profound way to connect with their own creativity and intuition, as well as to develop a deeper understanding of the body-mind connection.

Training and Practice

Training in Authentic Movement is available through various programs and workshops worldwide. These programs often include the study of movement analysis, psychological theory, and the practice of witnessing. Practitioners come from a variety of backgrounds, including psychotherapy, dance, and bodywork, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the practice.

Challenges and Critiques

While Authentic Movement is celebrated for its depth and transformative potential, it also faces critiques related to the subjective nature of the experience and the challenges of adequately training facilitators. Ensuring the safety and psychological well-being of participants is a paramount concern, given the vulnerability that can arise in the process.