Training in somatic techniques-- holistic body-centered movement that promotes psycho-physical awareness and well-being--provides an effective means of improving dance students' efficiency and ease of movement. However, dance educators do not always have the resources to incorporate this knowledge into their classes. This volume explains the importance of somatics, introduces fundamental somatic principles that are central to the dance technique class, and offers tips on incorporating these principles into a dance curriculum. The authors demystify somatic thinking by explaining the processes in terms of current scientific research. By presenting both a philosophical approach to teaching as well as practical instruction tools, this work provides a valuable guide to somatics for dance teachers of any style or level.

About the Author
Julie Brodie, an associate professor of dance at Kenyon College in Ohio, is an active choreographer and performer. Elin Elizabeth Lobel, an associate professor of kinesiology at Towson University in Maryland, is the editor of the Journal of Laban Movement Studies, and editorial board member for the Journal of Dance Education and the Feldenkrais Journal.

Reviews
"An excellent resource...highly recommended"-Choice; "presents ways dance educators can incorporate information from somatic practices into their teaching of technique and why this is important for improving dance efficiency and ease of movement"-Reference & Research Book News.



Book Information
ISBN 9780786458806
Author Julie Brodie
Format Paperback
Page Count 235
Imprint McFarland & Co Inc
Publisher McFarland & Co Inc
Weight(grams) 439g