Therapeutic Dance and Movement
Therapeutic Dance & Movement, or Dance Therapy, is a free flowing, embodied approach to wellbeing. It has some aspects which are similar to Dance Movement Psychotherapy, but they are different practices. Dance Movement Psychotherapy is a clinical practice where participants work emotional depth. It involves a clinical framework and creative process. These Dance Therapy sessions consist of guided movement explorations. The expressive and reflective aspects of the sessions have a positive benefit for physical and mental health but the intention is not to work at a deep level.
This is not a technique class, although the principles of exercise, movement and dance underpin the sessions. There is no choreography to learn and no teaching of movements. The practitioner guides participants to explore their own movement vocabulary. Explorations encourage movements for strength, balance and flexibility.
In Dance Therapy, there is no right or wrong way to do the movements. Being in the spirit of the moment, enjoying the connection with self and others are the main focus. It’s more about staying connected, having a bit of fun and supporting each other.
How mindful movement benefits mental health
The joy of moving freely
