Somaesthetics and Body Consciousness

Workshop with Richard Shusterman

This workshop will begin with a general introduction to the field of somaesthetics, followed by a series of practical exercises that will focus on the experiential dimension of somaesthetics and some of its strategies and methods for heightening body consciousness. These strategies and methods will be first introduced in actual experiential practice and then briefly analyzed in terms of their logic and principles. The exercises will focus on slow, smooth and often very small movements in order to maximize the ability to focus more clearly and carefully on the movements for better analysis. The exercises highlight the complexity and multiplicity of our body constitution by showing how the same basic movement can be differently performed by using different micro-movement components. The workshop will help participants to sharpen their body consciousness and perceive more clearly which ways of performing a given movement are more efficient, effective and attractive. This improved perception of their body constitution in action can improve their performance capacities. The workshop format involves segments where the participants can develop insights from the experience of these exercises into creative performance ideas.