Authentic Movement

Authentic Movement is a contemplative movement practice initially developed by Mary Starks Whitehouse (1911-1979) in the 1950s as ‘movement in depth,’ influenced by Modern dance and Jungian psychology. Janet Adler (1941-2023) further developed the practice as the Discipline of Authentic Movement, which supports the development of clear and compassionate consciousness.

In the practice, a mover moves and rests with their eyes closed in the presence of a witness within a safe and contained space. Moment by moment, the mover tracks their experience, attending to their movements, sensations, feelings, emotions, and imaginations. In this process, the depth of the mover’s consciousness begins to surface, which is usually less evident in their everyday life. After the moving and witnessing circle is done, the moving experience is anchored through mark-making and/or writing activities. Then, in the next speaking and listening circle, the mover speaks from their experience and receives witnessing from others. This process helps them broaden and clarify their awareness and often uncover more profound reflections and meanings. 

I have been practising the Discipline of Authentic Movement with Linda Hartley, with whom I also regularly assist, and with Fran Lavendel in recent years. In my journey, I learned, and continue to learn how to embrace all visible and invisible in myself and others with clarity and compassion. It has been a nurturing and transformative journey for me, and I cherish the Authentic Movement community I belong to.

I am trained as an Authentic Movement teacher with Linda Hartley and teach as a Registered Master Somatic Movement Therapist with ISMETA . As a teacher, I intend to hold a safe, supportive space for each person to be with what emerges. I take pleasure in witnessing the unfolding of each mover and the phenomena in the group.

I offer regular Authentic Movement workshops in East London and Norfolk. Also, one-to-one sessions are available in London, allowing you to work on personal materials with more personalised care and therapeutic support.

You are welcome to join us for Authentic Movement if you are called.

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Current offerings
London: Ongoing Group
London: Introductory Workshops

Norfolk: Summer Retreat
Norfolk: Workshops