An Introduction to Dance/Movement Therapy

"Movement is a basic form of communication that provides us with opportunities for socialization, the development of community and the experience of expressing our aliveness and our innermost thoughts and feelings." - Nana Koch
In this ADTA Talk, Nana Koch, board certified dance/movement therapist, licensed creative arts therapist and award-winning educator, introduces the viewer to the profession of dance/movement therapy, its history, and describes an approach to group work.
Nana Koch, Ed.D, BC-DMT, LCAT, NCC, LPC, CMA is a board certified dance movement therapist, licensed creative arts therapist and educator. Nana studied with pioneering dance therapist Liljan Espenak in one of the earliest courses she offered at Flower and Fifth Avenue Hospital/Mental Retardation Clinic. Since Espenak’s passing, Nana has been the sole practitioner teaching her system of psychomotor therapy. She has worked with a range of clinical populations including children and adolescents with developmental delays and adolescents and adults with affective disorders, psychosis and/or addictions. Additionally, Nana has taught dance/movement training courses in New York, Costa Rica, India and China.
Currently, Nana is an Associate Professor and Chairperson of the Department of Health, Physical Education and Movement Science at Long Island University-Post. She is the former coordinator of the Hunter College Dance/Movement Therapy Masters Program, the former Chair of the American Dance Therapy Association's (ADTA) Sub-Committee for Approval of Alternate Route Courses, the former chair of ADTA’s Credentials Committee and she was a member of ADTA’s Approval Committee (for graduate coursework). She is now on ADTA’s Alternate Route Educators Subcommittee.
Nana is the author of several dance therapy articles appearing in the American Journal of Dance Therapy. Additionally, her interviews of three dance/movement therapists formed the basis for the dialogue used in the film produced by the New York Chapter of ADTA entitled "Moving Stories: Portraits of Dance/Movement Therapy" available here: nysadta.org/dvd/
In 2012, Nana was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award by the American Dance Therapy Association. In 2011 she was honored with the Amazing Person Award from the Higher Education/Professional Preparation Section of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. In 2009 she was named Higher Education Teacher of the Year by the Nassau Zone of the same organization.
To learn more about dance/movement therapy, please visit the American Dance Therapy Association website: www.adta.org

[@nanakoch5178]

Many thanks to all for your comments about how the presentation helped you to better understand what is dance/movement therapy and how it applies to working with a range of client populations. My best, Nana Koch

[@soulseeker8681]

Beautiful presentation of a beautiful healing technique! Would love to hear more from you!

[@justinmagnus8567]

This was a great talk! You are a great speaker with a strong message!

[@nutansarnaik8906]

Fantastic session I would like learn it. I am from India

[@arpitachakraborty1773]

Want to do this course.

[@KarebelleMissKarebear]

Clear, logical, loving presentation. I have been a dancer- sharer - for 20 years and just now putting the powerful experiences that I've witnessed into knowledge towards learning & practicing dance movement therapy. So exciting!

[@Judahtalkss]

Im only 13 and I've been trying to figure out what i want to be and who i want to be so that I have a goal, this is exactly it! I am an excellent dancer and I have gone through LOTS and LOTS of trauma in my life so i feel that i can relate to clients better that way. This has to be my calling to the world!

[@brieanneauten151]

Follow your heart and body and it will lead you in the direction meant for you. You will be able to share and teach at a depth that will help others since you have had your own experience and connection with both. May you find what you seek!

[@elisharudeberg8348]

That's awesome

[@juliejenner8427]

How wonderful you dance and you are curious. I am sorry you had some trauma and I trust will find your way into deeper healing and joy in your life. I wish you every blessing 🙏🏻💙🕊️

[@lei3658]

This is my language. I'm going to become a DMT, I have a master's in Clinical mental health counseling and I'll change my whole career path for this

[@ADTAorg]

We invite you to visit www.adta.org to learn more about the profession. You may want to also follow @adtaorg on Instagram and on Facebook, to stay apprised of events, conferences and workshops. Be well. facebook.com/AmericanDanceTherapyAssociation

[@lei3658]

This is what I've been looking for my whole life

[@AnumitKaur0211]

What a beautiful talk! I can listen to her many time over. Thanks for introducing me to DMT!

[@lucyhenry3619]

"The body reflects personality. Movement doesn't lie." This is such a strong and undeniable statement. I can think of so many instances in daily life where a small gesture reveals so much. For example, babies show us how they feel through movement before they can speak. Their care givers learn how to respond to their needs based solely on facial and motor expression. Efficient ability to assist one without the use of words has surprisingly endless possibilities.

[@kaylashapiro2732]

Dance solves many problems as it's a care-free natural way of moment that is fun, exciting and expressive!

[@gabrielleledesma4024]

I always think about how a movement is a form of communication and that someone can tell what you really mean about the way you are moving.

[@nanakoch5178]

ABSOLUTELY!!!

[@alicynstephens9136]

What really stuck out to me from this video is that rhythm is what binds us. When i think back on being in group setting, if I am with people who are in sync with my emotions or movements for example if we are all happy and sharing similar body movements, it makes me feel more connected with those peers, rather than if I am in a sad mood, and my friend is being more active and happy, it can feel like more of a disconnect from my peers.

[@WeAreComingHome]

"A circle is egalitarian. Everyone is seen in the same way...they are equal." You have said this so beautifully. It seems so simple, but the effects of just being together with people in this way can transform the time spent together. This idea will stay with me into the future, hopefully to be implemented when working with others struggling to be seen.

[@justinmagnus8567]

This is a great talk. I never realized how many tiny details can be picked up based on a persons gestures. It's cool to think of dance as how we move in our normal lives.

[@missorchid3522]

Just over three years ago I lost Celia my wife of 53 years. That left a very big hole in my life so as she was I consultant psychologist I know that this thing that sits on my neck can kill or cure. So, with the power of positive thinking I tried tap dancing well at 74 I was to say the least a bit wooden in my movements. My dance teacher Gemma said that I needed to try a different form of activity to limber up the old body. Well you could have knocked me down with a feather and what did she suggest ballet! Well I had never dome it before but now I do three classes a week just me and 40 ladies, one has to suffer for ones art. So music and movement keeps you going and it is a lot of fun, both the dance and the social life. Bernard Bibby 74 UK

[@a.b.1184]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Such a bliss that you found dancing and do it that much. It sure is divine and healing, Thats been proven more than once. Sending love your way

[@Karen-tk6xi]

That is so inspiring!! Thanks for sharing.

[@nanakoch5178]

Bernard, I am inspired by your courage to try something new that has brought such positive energy to your life. I imagine that losing your spouse was devastating, but your resilience and attitude led you to take up dancing. Kudos to you for taking the step into class and enjoying it so very much!!! As James Brown said: The one thing that can solve most of our problems is dancing! You have found your joy in the dance!!! BRAVO!

[@dianebig7857]

You know, I was a dance major, years ago. One of the forms of dance I studied was tap dancing. Our professor said you will never find an unhappy tap dance. I think that's pretty much true. She called tap dancing the Happy Dance. Keep moving, my friend. :)

[@rebeccaalterson1644]

Many people aren't really aware of DMT and how it is used around them. This video shines an excellent light on expressing ourselves and becoming aware of our feelings through a different form of communication.

[@jordandahlhauser3294]

Before this class, I didn't even know DMT existed, so I am very intrigued to learn how this medium can be used instead of traditional means of therapy.

[@victoriaharris4061]

I appreciate that she explained what a dance and movement therapist looks at during a session because I did not know.

[@jingzhang3698]

I really enjoy this video that she talk about the three different session and how to connect them to get the best effect. The warm up session is making a circle that way shows equal for every clients and therapist, and they using the music with the beats of rhythm to connect body to move differently from each clients. Some clients follow the beats of music to show the different moving posture that shows their emotion inside, a few clients start move slowly that hide their mind or inside body, and others would quickly moving with music.

[@haleyjohnson9487]

I find it very interesting that a person's body language, or the "shape and rhythm" of their body can say so much about their emotions, and how we as humans can pick up on that without even trying. We were never trained in dance movement therapy, yet we have an innate sense of which movements mean what, as movement is a universal language.

[@abbyfeuer4751]

I love the quote "movement does not lie"! This is a short but profound statement because movement in this case is not / should not be planned out and fully demonstrates emotion whether the patient realizes it or not. Movement is not classified as right or wrong so any movement presented gives insight into the emotions and internal sensations that the person is feeling.

[@mariablohowiak9850]

Hi Abby! I also loved that quote and I believe it's relevant in every situation!

[@alicynstephens9136]

I really agree with you Abby that this quote stood out to me as well. Movement no matter how small can show our emotions so strongly and with small changes to these, can make such a big difference.

[@isabellafarris]

I like how she quoted that the one thing that can solve most of our problems is dancing. lot of people who are not dancers are afraid of the word or afraid to do it because of judgment. I like how the concept of Dance/Movement therapy breaks down that stigma and makes people more comfortable with the idea of expressing their emotions through movement and dancing. DMT has the power and ability to bring people of all ages together, and to connect with one another. I love how she chose to connect with the audience and make them think of a gesture. It created a comfortable space with everybody. When I took a DMT class, the class started off the same way, and it created a wonderful environment.

[@mimiroselorraway274]

What a beautiful talk. Thank you.

[@miriamkaruga]

Thank you for this, I now have a definition of what I want to do

[@kamilbanks8895]

SAME!

[@mentona07]

Hi! Did you ever go into this field? I'm interested and I'd like to ask what your experience has been.

[@kylierobinson2449]

This synopsis of DMT gave me a great overview of what this career entails. Something that stood out to me was that "movement doesn't lie" which shows how beneficial DMT is for clients of all personalities and backgrounds. Movement having the ability to voice unsaid feelings is a strong power that can be understood and embraced by dance therapists, and I find that both intriguing and beautiful.

[@jakelemens4096]

recognizing movement as a form of communication is so important. master the mind and body connection, and you will find yourself to be much happier!

[@chloedruckrey779]

You can definetly tell her passion for Dance Movement Therapy. As she explains how movement can inform others about how they are feeling, I am able to understand how much authentic love an knowledge she has for DMT by the way Nana carries herself.

[@elisakeefner6616]

This talk was very helpful to me in learning about what a dance therapy group session entails; I've been learning about dance therapy as an occupation, and it sounds very interesting to me based on my interests in physical therapy and dance. This talk actually helped me understand what the goal is, what a group session is like, and the value of this type of therapy.

[@misakawamitsu1534]

A very engaging talk! I now have a better understanding of dance movement therapy and why it is so effective. It is because " movement is a basic form of communication that provides us with opportunities for socialization." It makes sense to why movement can help people create a community for people to come together to understand one another

[@sprucegoose6933]

This is an incredibly passionate talk by Nana Koch -- a very gentle introduction to the vast and fledging field of Dance/Movement Therapy. Thank you for this!

[@abbyblake2605]

I liked learning about how DMT helps people move freely to express emotions and help understand the best version of themselves. I have never thought about movement in a sense that it "does not lie."

[@meganhuber4415]

I agree that I also never thought of the statement, "movement does not lie." I never realized how much you could tell about a person just from their basic movements.

[@akaritakahashi7757]

Thank you Nana for the great summary on DMT! Dance Movement Therapy makes me realize the power of nonverbal communication. To simply express ourselves through moving our bodies, not the way we are told, but by the way we feel, connects our mind and body in such a deep way. I also emphasize in my classes that moving our body, embodying our fullest expression in the class and outside of the studio is the best way to bring dance not as a hobby but as a lifestyle!

[@tarahadley5951]

I find it incredibly fascinating that the nonverbal cues expressed through an individual's body language, encompassing the "form and cadence" of their movements, hold such profound meaning regarding their emotions. It amazes me how, as human beings, we possess an inherent ability to instinctively grasp the significance behind these movements, even without any formal training in dance movement therapy. This universal language of movement allows us to comprehend and interpret various gestures and postures effortlessly. The presentation I recently witnessed was immensely enlightening as it shed light on the intricacies of a dance therapy group session. As someone who has been exploring the field of dance therapy, it captivated my attention due to my keen interest in both physical therapy and dance. The talk provided valuable insights into the objectives, dynamics, and benefits associated with this form of therapy. Ultimately, this discussion greatly contributed to my comprehension of the underlying goals, the nature of group sessions, and the inherent value embedded within dance therapy.

[@ellaflapan-feig7932]

I love how she said that the "dance therapy session is the choreography of the emotions". Well said.

[@ethantaylor5234]

It is so interesting to see how someone's personality can be reflected without words through movement and dance. I have never truly looked at dance in this light before seeing these videos. Being able to speak and convey a message through movement is amazing to see and I cannot wait to see how that progresses into the future.

[@ansleylaev2576]

I think it's fascinating how much movement really does reveal about a person, just as iterated in this video: "through dance, people reveal their innermost life." I also liked the comment about the importance of space, such as how a simple circle formation can largely affect (and improve) the bonding of a group of people, especially a group of strangers or physically/emotionally restrained people.

[@oliviapolich451]

I thought it was so cool how she talked about how a smile is infectious and how you're feeling can be seen through your body!

[@chloedruckrey779]

That's exactly what I thought!

[@Marymassaro1]

Thank you Nana!!!! Simple and clear description of the IMPORTANT healing work! I miss those days!!!!

[@msweetnam5806]

This was helpful in better understanding what a dance therapy session/practice might look like, and how to take what you learn in a dance therapy session to other parts of life.

[@abigailcarey6522]

I really enjoyed the idea of dance therapy as an unprescribed treatment presented in this talk. So much of my studies in the psychology department stress different models of treatment to prescribe a client, but dance therapy really allows the client to dictate how they are feeling and what they need that session.

[@meganhuber4415]

What I like about this talk is that there is such a focus on individualization even though sessions can typically be done in a group setting, This aspect gives everyone the opportunity to express their own inner emotions in their preferred movement. I also love how dance therapy can apply to a range of populations and ages.

[@SelfEsteemclinic]

I am a professionally trained classical dancer. During the pandemic, I could not dance for almost two to three years as there were outdoor restrictions. The minute I got to dance for a recital after the pandemic and I could not help but I was drenched in tears as I was dancing. This experience really made me believe in the power of dance/movement even more. In some cultures, dance is seen religiously.

[@nanakoch5178]

How powerful an experience you had when you were able to once again perform..feeling the power of dance within you and the expression you have been waiting to experience and share publically. Bravo!

[@chongvue9872]

Your last quote is very impressive! It was a very great way to describe what dance therapists do to help others! It's very interesting how the many movements we do everyday shows what we choose not to express through words. Watching this video allowed me to realize how many of our actions often goes unnoticed, as we don't usually realize that we're expressing our emotions.

[@GD-ds9kv]

Your'e voice and way of speaking is decidedly soothing

[@justinmagnus8567]

Yes!! Her voice was very nice to listen to and helped me stay focused on the talk.

[@morganpeters2214]

DMT needs people with voices like hers to heal and calm the body.

[@melissabiyonghe9815]

Through the video, I can feel how dance therapy can fill my emotion and touch the deepest mind/most hidden thought. Dance gives me a good feeling, and it gives a way that i can emphasize the content of my conversation. It's better than hand writing. Like old saying when Chinese appeared to dance" The lack of words, the dance of the song."

[@WeAreComingHome]

I could feel it as well. Her words and her body language, especially her arms, tapped into that energy that she spoke of. I had not heard that old saying before. Thank you for sharing it.

[@elizabethnelson2447]

From this video, I thought it was so eye opening to learn about how prevalent dance therapists are. I loved how you talked about how dance therapists don’t force their clients to preform a specific movement, yet encourage them to just do what comes naturally and I think that idea is so important especially for people that don’t have strong dance backgrounds so they don’t feel uncomfortable.

[@elisakeefner6616]

I agree that this is so interesting and important to do movement that comes naturally. In my own dance experience, I know that I love improvisation and value how I feel after it.

[@ameliafeuerer9117]

I love how condensed yet easy to understand this presentation is. It gets to the core of dance therapy and shows hat any movement is crucial to expressing emotions and feelings. It just such a deep mind and body connections that is so powerful

[@helenrottier684]

I love the idea of movement as communication, for both patients/clients that are nonverbal and patients looking for another way to express themselves and explore within.

[@angelalowry8475]

On my way to certification after undergrad!!!

[@lboyer7441]

A wonderful explanation of dance/movement therapy!

[@shankarnaidu704]

Best presentation of movement and emotion binding .

[@anthonymayo9769]

Makes me happy

[@faithpernsteiner1460]

This talk by Nana Koch provides insight into how important dance and movement is in providing insight into an individual and gives individuals a way to communicate with each other without even having to talk. Dance and movement therapy has huge potential to give those who struggle with communicating how they feel or coping how they feel an outlet where they can be understood.

[@radhikap7250]

her definition of movement dance therapy is different from what I thought it would be. I would not have thought that the mind would have anything to do with it but DMT is involved in both the mind and the body. The feeling that is evoked by a gesture and what a dance movement therapist may tell a client is interesting to me, as these are approaches that I would not have initially would have thought

[@serendipitystage5061]

This was quite a lovely and succinct introduction to the concepts of dance/movement therapy. I loved being able to watch the audience create their movements and share them with each other. Your voice is also so soothing to listen to!

[@danijelafechushak767]

Something I learned and have to adapt to is that DMT is not about specific dance movements or expressions but rather it is about the individual moving freely and comfortably to express emotion felt inside. Nana Koch's definition and explanation definitely helped me understand what to expect with DMT.

[@msweetnam5806]

As someone with a dance performance background this is something I'm also needing to wrap my head around, and feels like a really important piece of getting the most out of dance and movement therapy as a client and practitioner

[@pradnyasawant7805]

Love this you've explained it so well thank you ❤️

[@montihall1]

Excellent presentation, I loved how the speaker had a certain rhythm or good vibes. This made the presentation even better. The definition of dance therapy is also very helpful.

[@meerajit1]

Great words in simple way , thanks Nana , 🥰

[@ginapietrantuono6736]

This is a truly impactful video. I’m currently a junior in college majoring in psych, and assisting a psychologist when I’m home from school. I love all that psych has to offer but I never had a clear path of what I wanted to do after I graduate. I’ve danced competitively and recreationally for 15 years, and I know how much it can help someone who needs to “let it out”, but cant get it out verbally. After watching this video, I know EXACTLY what i want to do after college. Thank you for sharing this video!!

[@minal5778]

Great video! Thanks for sharing the knowledge.

[@jamesarndt3008]

This is a wonderful summation of DMT. The idea of body language as the first language is not new to me but it always interesting to think about. I've tried to consciously pick up on movement cues but it's been very hard. Generally, however, I think we are subconsciously far better at picking up cues. Being able to read and understand this language can be invaluable.

[@peytonbohn1309]

I had never heard of dance movement therapy. This introduction to it was really informative and I really enjoyed watching this! I hope to use aspects of movement therapy in my classroom one day!

[@karinanaze1888]

I am very excited to begin studying dance/movement therapy after watching this talk! I am especially intrigued by the many possibilities for both individual and communal dance/movement therapy interventions and the various settings for such a holistic practice.

[@marleehalbach4643]

I am also intrigued to understand how communal dance movement therapy works! Normally when I dance, I dance by myself without anyone watching me. It will be interesting to see how the dynamic changes when I have to communicate with others by dancing.

[@saigealexa5738]

I really appreciate the notion of movement being the first and foremost form of communication. Having taken a nonverbal course this semester, I completely agree that body movement allows for someone to communicate how they're feeling without editing or fine-tuning their true response. It's fascinating to see a group of people watching the same presentation give off different emotions through their body movements. I can't help but think that if they were prompted to do the same, but instead replace the motion with a verbalized sound, the responses would be much less candid.

[@renakornblum9536]

Nana, what a wonderful talk. This is a clear, concise, stimulating introduction to what dance/movement therapy is and how it works. I love the whole thing and especially the ending. You fit a lot into a short talk. I plan to have this be the first ADTA talk that my introductory dance/movement therapy students watch this fall. Thanks for doing such a good job.

[@nanakoch5178]

Hi Rena..thanks for your kind words..I'm glad the message came through about our work..With gratitude, Nana

[@hannahshimek6852]

I found it very interesting hearing about where dance therapy comes from and how it can help a variety of different people no matter there age. I also enjoyed hearing about how dance therapists don't force their clients to do anything but instead encourage them.

[@oliviapolich451]

I really like the second thing that you talked about. I like that dance therapists are there to work with you and not to force you to do anything. They just want you to be comfortable!

[@mindfulnesswithdivya]

Very well explained ma'am. I was searching about dance movement therapy for a long time but couldn't find a proper knowledgeable resource. After watching this I'm happy that my doubt is clear now. 😊

[@nanakoch5178]

I am so glad that this talk provided you with useful information..

[@lalitahardas628]

Very much thankful beautifully explained

[@OscarWrightZenTANGO]

Excellent presentation - it is part of our Zen Tango Workshops

[@ellaredmore9016]

This video really helped me to understand dance therapy a little more. I found the quote "the choreography of the emotions" really powerful. Dance therapy helps to express emotions that sometimes a client wouldn't have any other way to express, and I think that is really cool

[@danijelafechushak767]

I agree that portion of her quote really stuck with me and helped me grasp the definition of DMT.

[@sapecina1]

Thank you, so nice explanation of dance therapy ❤️

[@beccaformella5659]

I liked hearing and also seeing where dance therapy comes from and how it is put into action to help a variety of individuals. There are so many contributing factors to one's identity and I am very excited to see in our DMT class how we are able to carry this out with the combination of music, movement, and dance.

[@kaylashapiro2732]

Hi Becca, I'm also very excited to see in our DMT class how were able to see all the contributing factors that make up DMT!

[@dancetherapywithmarina7148]

What a wonderful presentation. Very informative and helpful

[@noelfarmer3840]

Nana thank you so much for this video it really helped me understand the DMT process and how it is actually organized and used. I loved the interactive part with the audience in the middle of the video I thought that was a very helpful example.

[@elisakeefner6616]

I tried the exercise with you during the talk Nana, and I agree that it was a very helpful example. It's so inspiring to see that everyone does something different because we all feel differently.

[@Healingfromtheroot]

I’m a mental health therapist and have become a belly dancer for fun over the last few years. Your video inspires me to become a dance therapist. I get sick of sitting still in the therapeutic healing atmosphere and this inspired me. Thank you!

[@noellange3400]

This is a wonderful introduction to dance and movement therapy with a lot of information that helped me see a clear vision of what the field looks like. It is so interesting that the therapists can connect the symbols they see within their client's movements to emotions within the unconscious mind.

[@mariablohowiak9850]

Hi Noel! I agree, I didn't know much about movement therapy prior to this video but now I am interested in learning more!

[@hsin-chiao319]

I really enjoy to watch this video:)

[@emilysprague5532]

I was not really sure what a dance therapy session consisted of so I really appreciated how the format of a dance therapy session was explained in this video. The structure of the session seems optimal for allowing clients to feel most comfortable expressing themselves in the group environment. It may be more intimidating if the therapist stood in front of them the entire time while they sat. The circle is a good way to start.

[@ellaredmore9016]

I agree, I think a circle is the best way to begin a session because it makes everyone a part of the group. There is no beginning, end, front, or back, just the group and I think that creates a really inclusive environment, which then makes group members more comfortable.

[@reneezaia]

Love this! ❤️💃🏻❤️

[@jordandahlhauser3294]

I have always known that our body can speak for us even before we say any words, but I have never thought to use those expressions to help determine how a person might need help. I think DMT be very beneficial to those who struggle to communicate how they feel with words because the body often times speaks for the mind.

[@emilysprague5532]

Great points! I have heard of many people who have selective mutism that use dance as an outlet for expressing themselves. This supports how DMT can be beneficial for those who struggle with communicating vocally.

[@stephaniekressin7659]

“the body reflects personality” this reminds me of when babies dance or move showing their first sign of their temperament.

[@danijelafechushak767]

That is a very good point. Babies express distress and other feelings before they can even talk.

[@msweetnam5806]

I really like that example! I think it can feel hard as an adult especially to access free/non self conscious movement, and appreciate tying to to childhood and trying to access an original form of authenticity

[@indianandinternationallawa5726]

It's great ... thanks

[@marleehalbach4643]

I really liked this speaker personally. She did a great job explained what DMT is by the official definition and some other ideas similar. I found it really interesting that movement is so powerful the body can tell experiences. That is fascinating to me.

[@jordandahlhauser3294]

I agree that movement can be a great communicator for the body. Often times I can tell when I am stressed because my body is tense, especially in my shoulders and neck.

[@emilysprague5532]

I find that interesting too! When creating a dance, a choreographer may structure it in a way that is supposed to convey an experience or story, but in DMT, the movement can tell experiences without awareness or intention of it.

[@renakornblum5745]

@@emilysprague5532 Very good observation Emily

[@mariablohowiak9850]

As a former dancer, I connect to the part where Nana talks about how movement helps us express our inner thoughts and feelings as well as portray our personalities. This can have a huge impact on others that surround you.

[@michaelagain803]

I am also a former dancer and I totally agree with this. Movement always allowed me to express how I was feeling and ultimately helped me feel more care-free and expressive:)

[@oliviapolich451]

I am the same way! I have danced forever and can always release my stress, etc. when I'm dancing!

[@karissalange1682]

There was a few things that really stuck with me from thus talk. 1) your body cannot lie; I still think it's crazy how much you can tell from a person by the way there body looks and moves, 2) Rhythm is what binds us; this is something that I never really noticed before but it really shows how powerful simply things can be to make us feel included, 3) it connects of minds, bodies, and emotions, I feel as if those three elements are often out of balance where we choose to focus on one part more than the other.

[@abbyblake2605]

Karissa, I like how you talk about the idea of balance between the three elements and agree. If a person is prioritizing one element more than another, this could contribute to things like anxiety, eating disorders, etc...

[@meganhuber4415]

I like your perspective that mind, body, and emotion are all connected, however out of balance. I feel like people tend to put body first over exploring their expression of emotions and mental health.

[@alicynstephens9136]

I also agree with your statements that stuck with you from this video. when our bodies are included in the same movements it makes people feel a lot more connected.

[@cromana5574]

There is an art of healing movement which was created about one hundred years ago: Eurythmy Therapy. There is an association in North America. ATHENA

[@benedicta.alvina]

Thank you, this video is a great resources and help me to write my last project (thesis). I have really struggle to find good resources, because in my country, this therapy is rarely to talked about. Thank you so much!!

[@nanakoch5178]

Benedicta, How glad I am to hear that this video was so helpful for you. Bravo for completing your last thesis project!

[@zuzlee]

such a beautiful human.

[@suzannepoitras6807]

Thank you for this introduction to dance therapy ! I'm very interested in becoming a dance therapist .

[@KyleDyson9346]

thx for this it help a lot

[@kavyarajpal1824]

Awesome video

[@soumisarkar5384]

amazing 😍

[@geenadavis4993]

I grew up in a very dark home as a child. I learned to live in my mind and it further isolated me from others. I remember being in my room and I would dance my heart out. I feel that it may have saved me as an adult from becoming a drug addict or criminal perhaps. I have a peace about me that is lighter than air and also rooted into Earth. I think God or Goddess or my angels led me to music and movement.

[@ashishgurav1084]

Awesome

[@user-fe7dz8uw3i]

说得真棒👍👍👍👍

[@nayanakrishnapura518]

superb

[@rishshan1990]

❤

[@julesredlinger8199]

Finding one's own gesture seems like something really important to an individual. The steady rhythm that brings together a group that allows for a person to dive deeper into that gesture and what makes it important to them seems like something very powerful. Music helps movement to bloom into something that has healing properties.

[@briannuckols9520]

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@tennesseeonruang9600]

I'm so interested in Rudolf Laban's works. Under which discipline does it all fall?

[@hazawins4192]

I really want to get into Dance Therapy. I have been teaching for nearly 20 years in Latin and Ballroom and although I have been helping people overcome personal issues I want to further my help to others by using dance as therapy. I am not sure how to go about this taking online courses but if anyone knows of a good school please let me know.

[@rozpearson]

I'm currently reading an article by Sabine Koch on Dance Therapy research. Are you two related Nana?

[@e.lorenajara1910]

Great talk! But... Isn't Maria Fux the pioner of Dance Therapy?

[@nanakoch5178]

There are pioneers of dance therapy in several parts of the world. I am most familiar with those in the United States. In the U.S, Marian Chace was one of them. She was among a small group of women in the U.S. to first use dance for the treatment of those with a range of abilities. She was the first president of the American Dance Therapy Association and her work is what has been often (but not always) utilized when working with groups. She, along with other first generation dance therapists, understood that dance, which has been used throughout civilization as an art form to express what was/is going on in a culture, is inherently healing. In the U.S. "pioneers" include, among others, Liljan Espenak, Blanche Evan, Mary Whitehouse and Trudi Schoop. From what I know, Maria Fux developed her own system of dance therapy in Argentina and may well be a pioneer there. However, I am not familiar with her work so cannot provide more information. Hanny Exiner was a pioneer of dance therapy in Australia. I trust there are others throughout the world who use various forms of dance that are particular to their given culture in the service of therapy and healing.

[@e.lorenajara1910]

@@nanakoch5178 thanks for the reply and for all the information. I'm sure that, as you said, there are many people from around the globe that are pioneers in their own ways and culture. The important thing is to keep sharing dance as a healing tool! Thank you!

[@nanakoch5178]

@@e.lorenajara1910 My pleasure. And yes, keep sharing!!!!