Art of Massage
Art of Massage
Bodywork & Authentic Movement
Authentic Movement Offerings
Authentic Movement Offerings
Authentic Movement Winter 2024
6-Session Series
1st & 3rd Sundays, 9:30 - 11:30 AM
at Disco Riot's New Space at MCASD Downtown
1100 Kettner Blvd San Diego, CA
January - March 2024
1/7, 1/21, 2/4, 2/18, 3/3, 3/17
Can we enter the vastness of not knowing? Wait and listen for the body’s inner leadings to rise and flow, sink and rest, or burst into being?
The practice of Authentic Movement invites us to be present with our full and deepest selves, it offers an entry into seeing clearly through cultivating one’s inner witness. This profound discipline, involving inner-initiated movement, with eyes closed in the receptive presence of a witness connects us to the inner wisdom of the body.
In this 6 session offering we will deepen our exploration of the elements of Authentic Movement: how to connect with one’s authentic movement, moving and being moved, seeing and being seen, and the roles of mover and witness, both inner and outer. We will continue to embody conscious use of language and use various forms of practice such as dyads, the breathing circle, and the long circle.
This series is open to all. If you are new to Authentic Movement you must come to the first session or connect with Jane for an introduction to the practice.
To learn more about Authentic Movement, here's a wonderful introductory article by Daphne Lowell, and a link to Light, a beautiful film centering Janet Adler, a key developer of the Discipline of Authentic Movement.
Question? Contact Jane janeeb1018@gmail.com
RSVP Here as space is limited.
Fee / Sliding Scale NOTAFLOF (No One Turned Away For Lack Of Funds)
$100 - $240 for the series, $20-$40/session drop in rate for those with prior Authentic Movement Experience - RSVP Required - Link coming soon!
About Authentic Movement
About Authentic Movement
Authentic Movement is a profoundly simple awareness practice of inner-directed movement that can awaken body wisdom. Within the safety and support of a contained circle, participants explore and expand their capacity to move and be moved, to listen within and be more fully present with one's self. In the receptive presence of non-judgmental witnessing, movers close their eyes, turn their attention inward and follow the impulses that arise from within.
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/or helpful insights into the wisdom of their own bodies, histories, and life.
After moving, there will be time for reflection and integration, both individually and as a group through journaling, drawing, and speaking about one's experience. Through the practice, participants can cultivate and strengthen their inner witness. as they compassionately attend to the physical sensations, emotions, thoughts, images, and stories that arise.
The practice of Authentic Movement, pioneered by Mary Starks Whitehouse and further developed by Janet Adler, PhD has been used as a spiritual and artistic resource, and a supportive process for bodymind integration and healing since the 1950s.
For more information about Authentic Movement please visit www.authenticmovementcommunity.org
About Jane Blount - I am holistic bodyworker, dance artist/educator, Qi gong teacher, an embodied anatomy geek with an HHP in Integrative Somatics from the International School of Professional Bodywork (IPSB), and founder of Art Of Massage: Holistic Bodywork.
I was introduced to Authentic Movement in 1993 and have been practicing this form more deeply since 2007 when I co-founded a San Diego Authentic Movement Peer Group. In addition to my deep engagement with Authentic Movement, I had an extensive career in dance working in the companies of Jean Isaacs, Nancy McCaleb, John Malashock, Elisa Monte, and Danny Buraczeski among others.
I was a co-founder of Lower Left Performance Collective, and have taught and performed contact improvisation, postmodern and contemporary dance throughout San Diego, the Midwest, and NYC. I find deep, quiet joy in sharing the practice of Authentic Movement.
Past Authentic Movement Events
Past Authentic Movement Events
Center in Place
a 1 Day Online Retreat
Saturday, April 18th, 2020
Let us connect and nourish our souls in two workshops
inspired by the embodied and healing practices of
Authentic Movement & Embodied Art-Making
Pay what you can
suggested fee $5 - $35/workshop
Come to one or both as you wish
Center In: A Virtual Contemplative Movement Circle
9:30 – 11:30 am
facilitated by Jane Blount, HHP
We'll gather, using Soul Cards, personal check-ins, guided meditation to somatically center ourselves then enter into a contemplative movement circle using the practice of Authentic Movement to listen deeply within for what wants to RISE from our CENTERS. We'll move and be held, virtually, have time to reflect through writing and drawing, then share our experience in a closing reflection witness circle. All are welcome, no prior experience with Authentic Movement necessary.
Soul Strength: Embodied Art-Making
Story & Movement, Color & Shape
1 – 3 pm
facilitated by Elizabeth Jacobowitz, MA
In this workshop, we venture on a journey: we will use story-telling, movement, gesture to investigate our own stories of rising up. We capture images through blind contour and gesture drawing. Adding colors, our images come to life and new stories emerge. Deep wisdom comes from embodiment. What strengths might spring from your soul?
RISE UP – Cancelled due to Covid 19
Movement, Art, and Theatre
April 3-5, 2020
at the Sanctuary Studio
San Diego, CA
Come nourish yourself and connect with community in a weekend retreat
of movement and expressive arts inspired by the embodied and healing practices of Authentic Movement, Embodied Art-Making with Soul Cards and Clay,
and Theatre Improv for Personal Empowerment.
Leap into One or all 5 Workshops
Pay what you can
(suggested fee $25 - $50/workshop)
Register:
Call (619) 379-8747 or email jane@artof-massage.com
Authentic Movement Long Circle
Fri. April 3rd, 6:30 – 9 pm
facilitated by Jane Blount, HHP
Enter, center, listen, sink into movement and/or rise to witness. The Long Circle structure encourages deepening development of the nonjudgmental, clear seeing internal witness for movers and witnesses alike. Participants move freely between these roles in this fluid form of Authentic Movement. All are welcome, no prior experience necessary.
Authentic Movement: Moving from Within
Sat. April 4th, 9:30 am – 12 noon
facilitated by Jane Blount, HHP
Authentic Movement is a profound, self-directed practice in which body wisdom is a source, and movement is an avenue for self-inquiry and expression. With eyes closed participants turn their attention inward and follow the impulses that arise from within. There are no movements to learn, only one’s own to discover. With roots in Jungian Psychology, and Dance/Movement Therapy, AM can be a potent therapeutic, spiritual and artistic resource. After moving, there is time for reflection and integration through journaling, drawing, and/or speaking about one’s experience.
Soul Spring: Embodied Art-Making with Soul Cards, Movement & Clay
Sat. April 4th, 2 – 4:30 pm
facilitated by Elizabeth Jacobowitz, MA
In this workshop, we venture on a journey: exploring where we’ve been, where we are now, and where we’re going. Engaging with Deborah Koff-Chapin’s Soul Cards and creating with clay, we investigate the forms and images that have heart and meaning for each of us. Then, we step into gesture and movement to connect to the deep wisdom that comes from embodiment. What might spring from your soul?
Power Plays: Theatre Improv for Personal Empowerment
Sat. April 4th, 6:30 – 8:30 pm
facilitated by Jo-Elyn Nourie, MA
Explore the power dynamics of interpersonal communication using improvisational theatre games. Get the drama out of your life and onto the stage, where we can all enjoy the insightful and empowering fun! Learn to make improvisation your second nature as you easily and humorously create theatre with depth.
Come ready to be part of a supportive audience and be open to the possibility of getting on stage - no experience necessary. No pressure to perform as theatre always needs an audience and players.
Authentic Movement: What’s Arising Now?
Sun. April 5th, 9:30 am – 12 pm noon
facilitated by Jane Blount, HHP
Continue the deepening, questioning, listening. What might arise if you leap into the personal and collective pools of consciousness through the practice of Authentic Movement three days in a row?
Call (619) 379-8747 or email jane@artof-massage.com
to reserve your spot!
*****
AM/FM - Tune In
Authentic Movement First Mondays
Authentic Movement is a self-directed practice, in which body wisdom is a source, and movement an avenue for self-inquiry and expression. The form is simple and profound, involving inner-initiated movement and sound. With eyes closed, in the receptive presence of an experienced witness, participants turn their attention inward and follow the impulse for movement that arises from within.
Stillness, movement, rest, play, laughter, tears, and more may all be part of the experience. There is no right or wrong way. There are no movements to learn, only one’s own to discover. After moving, there is time for reflection through journaling, drawing, and/or speaking to integrate your experience.
Authentic Movement has been used as a spiritual and artistic resource, and a supportive process for bodymind integration and healing since the 1960s.
Bring a journal, water, and wear comfortable clothing so you'll be both warm and cool enough.
We meet on the first Monday of every month
9:30 am - 12:00 pm
at the Sanctuary Studio
San Diego, CA
Sliding scale: $25-$50/class
Experience with Authentic movement, or phone interview and introductory session required for new participants.
Enrollment limited to 8, space currently available.
*****
"I have been witnessing the body as a vessel in which healing occurs, a vessel in which direct experience of the Divine is known. As the vessel becomes conscious, it becomes more capable of enduring the darkness and receiving the light of our humanity."
- Janet Adler
*****
FALL IN – 5 Dives in Movement, Art, and Poetry
October 4-6, 2019
at the Sanctuary Studio
San Diego, CA
Come nourish yourself and connect with community in a weekend retreat of movement, expressive arts, and poetry inspired by the embodied and healing practices of Authentic Movement, Touch Drawing, and Poetic Medicine.
Come to One or all 5 Dives
Pay What You Can (suggested donation $20 - $50/workshop.)
Register: email jane@artof-massage.com
Contemplative Movement Circle (facilitated by Jane Blount)
Friday, 6:30 – 9 pm
Enter, Center, Move Alone, Move Together, Reflect. The structure for this workshop will blend Barbara Dilley’s Contemplative Dance Practice with Authentic Movement’s Long Circle form. I love the simplicity of the 3-part CDP of meditating, moving with awareness of self, then moving attuned to the community. We’ll begin with a simple guided Attunement energy meditation based on the endocrine glands, move with eyes closed opening to one’s inner senses, then expand awareness to the gathered community, moving as one is led with eyes open or closed, in and out of the circle.
Authentic Movement: Moving from Within (facilitated by Jane Blount)
Saturday, October 5th, 9:30 am – 12 noon
Authentic Movement is a profoundly simple body-based practice in which you are invited to discover what can happen when you close your eyes, listen and wait for your body to move. Can you allow the external to drop away, open to your inner world, and trust the ancient and present moment wisdom that resides in your body? Moving in the presence of a receptive witness, one can open to and tune into body sensation, organic movement, emotion, and imagination. With roots in dance, Jungian Psychology, and Dance/Movement Therapy, Authentic Movement can be a potent therapeutic, spiritual and artistic resource. Journaling, drawing, and/or speaking after moving is used for reflection and integration.
Touch Drawing (facilitated by Jo-Elyn Nourie)
Saturday, October 5th, 2 – 4:30 pm
Touch Drawing, a vehicle for creative, psychological and spiritual integration created by Deborah Koff-Chapin, is so simple and yet so profound. You spread a little paint on a board, cover it with paper, freely move your hands on the paper, then peel the paper off to see your drawing. Our hands, with their deep connection to our hearts, are aware of more than what we are conscious of and can express things that spring from deep within. As you immerse yourself in this embodied art-making practice you may discover a new way to reveal your inner world. Your explorations in Touch Drawing will be supported in sacred space by music that opens the heart and inspires your spirit.
Poetry Potluck (facilitated by John Foos and Jan Gist)
Saturday, October 5th, 5:30 – 8 pm
Bring a delicious dish to share
Embodied Improvisation: Sourcing from Within (facilitated by Jane Blount)
Sunday, October 6th, 9:30 am – 12 noon
Using Authentic Movement as a diving board, we will mine the material we find as a source and resource for embodied improvisation. Can we claim our authentic solo body and, in the process, come to know ourselves more fully? Can we allow ourselves to see and be seen? Working in dyads and trios in the roles of mover, witness, responder/scribe we will honor the inner and outer responses to emergent forms of authentically sourced improvisation. Can we commit, surrender, follow, lead, get lost, find our way? (Bring a journal, water, and dress in layers to be warm/cool enough.)
1st Sunday of every month, 9:45 am - 11:15 am
At Dancessence Studios: 2441 Impala Dr. Carlsbad, CA 92010
Open to All, no prior experience necessary.
"Come, enter, close your eyes and listen deeply within to honor your body, psyche, and soul."
$10 for class only, $15 for class and non-verbal Dance Church dance jam which follows from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.
The studio opens at 9:30, class starts at 9:45 with an introduction for those new to this form followed by a centering and intention setting practice. No late comers please - doors close at 10:00 am. If you are new to this practice wear comfortable clothing in layers so you can be cool/warm enough, please arrive early support the building of a strong container for this practice.
*****
Authentic Movement
Long Circle
Authentic Movement
Long Circle
Sunday, July 24, 2016 2:00 - 4:30 pm
Facilitated by Eliana Lynne Uretsky,
Laura Hayes-Meerman and Jane Blount
The Long Circle, a fluid structure within the practice of Authentic Movement, allows participants to move freely between the roles of mover and witness. This deepens inner-attending and supports the development of collective consciousness.
Jane Blount, Eliana Lynne Uretsky and Laura Hayes-Meerman are deeply committed, long-time practitioners of Authentic Movement who want to widen the local circle of movers and witnesses, further enriching the expressive arts, dance, and conscious movement communities in the San Diego region.
We invite experienced movers to an Authentic Movement Long Circle practice on Sunday, July 24, 2016, 2-4:30pm.
In the Long Circle form, each participant flows from mover to witness and mover again; the distinctions between the two may begin to blur. Transitions are inner-initiated, rather than based on time and set roles. This both allows and demands greater self-awareness, a sensing of organic beginnings and endings. In each moment, there are multiple witnesses; this strengthens the container and supports a deepened embodied descent into the unconscious field.
We welcome and encourage anyone experienced in Authentic Movement or deeply engaged with movement and consciousness practices to join us in the field. We realize this may be your first opportunity to experience the witness role.
Liberty Station
Expressive Arts Institute
2820 Roosevelt Rd, #204
San Diego, CA 92106
Open to Experienced Movers
Fee Scale: $10-$20 sliding scale
Authentic Movement Workshop
Authentic Movement Workshop
Sunday, July 24, 2016 2:00 - 4:30 pm
Co-facilitated by Laura Hayes-Meerman and Jane Blount
At Ginseng Yoga Studio
2985 Beech St.
San Diego, CA 92102
Close your eyes . . . Breathe . . . Drop into you body
Authentic Movement is a self-directed practice, in which body wisdom is a source, and movement an avenue for self-inquiry and expression. The form is simple and profound, involving inner-initiated movement and sound. With eyes closed, in the receptive presence of an experienced witness, participants turn their attention inward and follow the impulse for movement that arises from within.
Stillness, movement, rest, play, laughter, tears, and more may all be part of the experience. There is no right or wrong way. There are no movements to learn, only one’s own to discover. After moving, there is time for reflection through journaling, drawing, and/or speaking to integrate your experience.
Authentic Movement has been used as a spiritual and artistic resource, and a supportive process for bodymind integration and healing since the 1960s.
Bring a journal, water, and wear comfortable clothing so you'll be both warm and cool enough.
Open to all, no experience necessary.
Advance registration Fee: $30
$40 Day of at the door
*****
I (am) Move(d)
I (am) Move(d)
an evening performance of
dance, music and poetry
inspired by the practice of
Authentic Movement
Friday, April 24, 2015
7:30pm
theWhite Box Theatre
at Liberty Station
2520 Truxton Road #205,
San Diego, CA 92106
presented by San Diego Dance Theatre in the Live Arts Fest
Mining the depths of individual and collective unconscious,
these artists give birth and voice to the inner journey;
deeply personal, archetypal, transcendent.
I (am) Move(d), performed by the inter-generational trio of dance artists Jane Blount, Erica Buechner, and Jo-Elyn Nourie, and accompanied by poet Jan Gist and musician/composer Chris Penney, explores the subtle differences between ‘I move’ and ‘I am moved’ and establishes a dialogue between these states through improvisation and choreography.
Authentic Movement, a deeply creative, artistic and spiritual resource, is a therapeutic movement practice in which participants explore and expand their capacity to move and be moved, to listen within, heal personal wounds, and be more fully present with one’s body/psyche/soul. One enters into the practice of Authentic Movement in the spirit of open waiting, surrendering the ego to follow the body’s lead.
Mary Starks Whitehouse, a pioneering dance educator and dance therapist who laid the foundation for the practice of Authentic Movement in the late 1950s, wrote about the distinction between ‘moving’ and ‘being moved’.
‘I move’ is the clear knowledge that I personally, am moving… The opposite of this is the sudden and astonishing moment when ‘I am moved’… It is a moment when the ego gives up control, stops choosing, stops exerting demands, allowing the Self to take over moving the physical body as it will. It is a moment of unpremeditated surrender. (1979)
Through diving in, patient waiting, deep listening; uncovering, exposing and swirling the raw, creaturely, beastly beauty of movement, we explore issues of embodiment, memory, and trust. Welcoming the solace and support found in quietude and community, we face and embrace inner truth, sorrow, sweet joy and the delight of discovery.
*****
Moving From Within: Introductory Authentic Movement Workshop
Moving From Within: Introductory Authentic Movement Workshop
Sunday, May 3, 2015 1 - 4 pm
Dance Place San Diego at Liberty Station
San Diego Dance Theatre Dance Studio #106
$30 in advance, $40 at the door
Open to all, no experience necessary
Authentic Movement is a physical awareness practice of self-inquiry and expression. The form is simple and profound, involving inner-initiated movement and sound. With eyes closed, in the receptive presence of experienced witnesses, participants turn their attention inward and follow the movement impulses that arise.
Stillness, movement, rest, play, laughter, tears, and more may all be part of the experience. There is no right or wrong way. There are no “steps” to learn; there are only one’s own movements to discover. Authentic Movement has been used as a spiritual and artistic resource and as a supportive process for bodymind integration and healing since the 1960s.
For more info call (619) 379-8747 or jane@artof-massage.com
5 week Authentic Movement Class
5 week Authentic Movement Class
Thursdays, 6:30 - 8:30 pm
May 14th - June 11th 2015
$100 - $150 sliding scale
At The Sanctuary Studio (Located near the 94 and Federal Blvd, address and directions provided with registration.)
Authentic Movement is a profoundly simply physical practice of self-directed movement. In the receptive presence of a witness, with eyes closed, movers turn their attention inward and follow the impulses that arise from within. Stillness, sound, subtle or large scale moving through space may all be part of the experience. There is no right or wrong way. There are no movements to learn, only one’s own to discover.
After moving, there is time for individual reflection through journaling and/or drawing and group reflection where both movers and witnesses may speak. People engage in this practice as a spiritual and artistic resource, and a supportive process for bodymind integration and healing. Being part of a weekly practice can deepen and expand one’s authentic experience of self and life.
To register contact Jane 619-379-8747 or jane@artof-massage.com