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Our
purpose:
This website aims to serve and affiliate the authentic movement community,
broadly defined. We hope to provide a web presence that is a place for
connection and information sharing, including:
- A community blog where movers anywhere can post their ideas, articles, and questions and can comment on others' ideas.
- A directory for peer-to-peer connections, where you can sign up for free and get information on other movers for a small fee.
- A report on the International Authentic Movement Gathering of June 2006, with lots of thoughts on topics from "spirituality" to "developing a web presence."
- A Resources and Events page for paid professional listings and also links to programs and publications.
This website arose from the first International Gathering of Authentic Movers in June 2006. It continues some of the functions of A Moving Journal, with the blessings of the editors of AMJ.
Authentic Movement is a simple form of self-directed movement. It is usually done with eyes closed and attention directed inward, in the presence of at least one witness. Movers explore spontaneous gestures, movements, and stillness, following inner impulses in the present moment. The witness watches and tracks inner responses to the mover with the intention of not judging, but focusing on self-awareness.
Authentic Movement cultivates a contemplative frame of mind, clarity of perception, and movement that is personally enhancing. The particular relationship between mover and witness, in moving and being seen by another, creates a powerful framework within which this work takes place. Authentic Movement is practiced individually or in a group with an experienced teacher/witness. When more experienced movers are taught to become witnesses themselves, they may continue working with this method in peer groups and dyads.
Authentic Movement's original practitioners integrated Jung's concept of active imagination with modern dance movement improvisation. Students of pioneers such as Mary Whitehouse, Joan Chodorow, and Janet Adler have developed the form in various ways including:
- as a meditative,
spiritual practice that integrates body and mind for increased access
to
consciousness. - as part of psychotherapy process, for enhanced sense of self and and well-being; often bringing unconscious thoughts to awareness.
- as artistic support, to connect with creativity and creative process, unblocking and opening to new ideas.
- as community outreach and development in community long circles, that address and solve community-wide problems.
Often the experience of Authentic Movement feels like meaningful play and is full of fun. At other times movers and witnesses experience intense feelings and helpful insights into the wisdom of their own bodies.
Authentic Movement can be a discipline unto itself and can be used as a part of many different practices and teachings. Teachers develop the form in their own ways. Practices such as Movement Meditation, Contemplative Dance, Creative Movement Method, or Somatic Psychology use Authentic Movement as part of their training.
Authentic
Movement has grown and evolved over many years. It is an open and unfolding
form. Currently there are many experienced practitioners and teachers
of Authentic Movement. We value the variety and diversity of Authentic
Movement expressions throughout the world.