• Schedule an Appointment

    susana@bodywisepsychotherapy.com | (786) 402-7078
    Leave a review!

  • Susana Z. Garcia

    My WordPress Blog

    • Home
    • About
      • Meet Susy
      • Mission Statement
      • The BodyWise Approach
    • Services Provided
      • Individual Counseling
      • Relationship Counseling
      • Dance/Movement Therapy
      • Dialectical Behavior Therapy
    • Getting Started
      • Free 15 minute Phone Consultation
      • Rates and Insurance
      • Client Forms
      • Schedule a Session
      • FAQs
    • Resources
      • Blog
      • Resources for LGBTQI+
      • Resources for Trauma
      • Resources for Anxiety
      • Resources for Depression
    • Events
      • Embodied DBT Free Webinar
      • Embodied DBT Intensive Course
    • Contact
    Movement and dance therapy

    Dancing Towards Wellness: Insights into Movement Therapy

    February 27, 2024

    Dancing Towards Wellness: Insights into Movement Therapy Welcome to “Dancing Towards Wellness,” where I, as a dance psychotherapist, invite you to explore the transformative power of dance and movement therapy. Throughout this blog, we’ll delve into how movement therapy enhances physical, mental, and emotional well-being. But before we journey into the depths of this therapeutic […]

    Read More

    Dancing Towards Wellness: Insights into Movement Therapy

    February 27, 2024

    Dancing Towards Wellness: Insights into Movement Therapy

    Welcome to “Dancing Towards Wellness,” where I, as a dance psychotherapist, invite you to explore the transformative power of dance and movement therapy. Throughout this blog, we’ll delve into how movement therapy enhances physical, mental, and emotional well-being. But before we journey into the depths of this therapeutic approach, let’s first grasp the essence of movement therapy and why dance serves as an effective tool for promoting wellness.

    What is Movement Therapy?

    Movement therapy, synonymous with dance therapy or dance movement therapy, constitutes a holistic method integrating movement and dance to foster healing and self-expression. As a movement therapist, I understand the profound interconnectedness of the mind and body. By engaging individuals in purposeful movement, I facilitate the enhancement of their overall wellness. My practice encompasses various dance and movement techniques to aid clients in exploring and addressing emotional, cognitive, physical, and social issues.

    Why Dance for Wellness?

    Dance, entrenched in human culture for centuries, serves not only as a means of expression but also as a vehicle for celebration and ritual. As a dance psychotherapist, I’ve witnessed the therapeutic benefits of dance gaining recognition across psychology, rehabilitation, and healthcare domains. Unlike conventional talk therapy, dance therapy provides a non-verbal channel of communication, particularly beneficial for individuals grappling with verbal expression challenges. Moreover, dance encourages physical activity, crucial for nurturing a healthy body and mind.

    The Science of Movement Therapy

    Understanding the Mind-Body Connection:

    Central to movement therapy is the concept of the mind-body connection, emphasizing the intricate interplay between thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. In my practice, I leverage this connection, utilizing movement to access and process emotions stored within the body. Extensive research demonstrates that purposeful movement can regulate emotions, alleviate stress, and augment overall well-being.

    Neurological Benefits of Dance and Movement:

    Dance and movement therapy elicit neurological responses, activating various brain regions associated with emotion, memory, and motor control. For instance, dancing triggers the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters fostering feelings of pleasure and happiness. Additionally, rhythmic movement synchronizes neural activity, culminating in enhanced cognitive function and emotional regulation.

    Research and Studies Supporting Movement Therapy:

    A plethora of studies corroborate the efficacy of dance and movement therapy across diverse conditions, encompassing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain. Notably, a meta-analysis featured in the American Journal of Dance Therapy underscores the significant improvements in psychological well-being resulting from dance therapy interventions.

    Exploring Different Forms of Dance Therapy

    Techniques Used in Dance Therapy Sessions:

    As a dance psychotherapist, I employ a repertoire of techniques to facilitate self-expression and emotional release. These encompass guided movement exercises, mirroring, creative movement, and dance improvisation. Through these activities, clients embark on a journey of exploration and emotional processing within a safe and supportive environment.

    Case Studies and Success Stories:

    My practice is underscored by numerous case studies and success stories, attesting to the transformative potential of dance and movement therapy. For instance, a study documented in the Journal of Clinical Psychology tracked individuals with PTSD participating in a 12-week dance therapy program, revealing significant reductions in symptoms and enhancements in overall quality of life.

    The Role of Movement in Mental Health

    Managing Stress and Anxiety Through Movement:

    In addressing pervasive issues like stress and anxiety, dance and movement therapy offer a unique remedy. Through rhythmic movement and breathwork, individuals activate the body’s relaxation response, fostering feelings of calm and tranquility.

    Movement Therapy for Depression and PTSD:

    Depression and PTSD pose significant challenges to individuals’ well-being, yet dance and movement therapy offer a holistic approach to treatment. By engaging in movement and self-expression, individuals navigate through emotional turbulence, reframing negative thought patterns, and reclaiming control over their lives.

    Enhancing Emotional Well-being through Dance:

    Emotions often find residence within the body, and unresolved emotional conflicts manifest as physical symptoms. Dance and movement therapy provide a safe haven for accessing and processing these emotions, fostering emotional awareness and resilience. Through intentional and expressive movement, individuals liberate themselves from emotional constraints, embracing newfound freedom.

    Physical Rehabilitation and Movement Therapy

    Dance as a Tool for Physical Rehabilitation:

    My practice extends beyond mental health to encompass physical rehabilitation. Dance and movement enhance range of motion, strength, and coordination, complementing traditional physical therapy. Moreover, dance therapy injects creativity and enjoyment into rehabilitation exercises, fostering adherence and motivation.

    Improving Mobility and Coordination through Movement:

    For individuals contending with mobility issues or neurological conditions, dance and movement therapy offer invaluable support. Through rhythmic movement patterns, individuals refine motor skills, balance, and coordination. Moreover, dance therapy instills a sense of empowerment, encouraging exploration and self-efficacy.

    Integrating Dance Therapy into Healthcare Settings:

    Increasingly, dance and movement therapy find integration into healthcare settings, ranging from hospitals to rehabilitation centers. Certified movement therapists collaborate with healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive care, addressing a myriad of conditions. Whether facilitating mobility for stroke survivors or providing emotional solace to cancer patients, dance therapy epitomizes a holistic approach to healing.

    Practical Tips and Exercises

    Incorporating Movement into Daily Life:

    Embracing movement therapy need not entail professional dance expertise. Simple practices like brisk walks, stretching, or spontaneous dancing to music can profoundly impact physical and emotional well-being. Even a few minutes of daily movement can yield significant benefits.

    DIY Dance Therapy Techniques:

    For those intrigued by movement therapy, a wealth of resources awaits. Online videos, literature, and workshops offer guidance on various techniques, from breathwork to improvisational dance. It’s imperative to honor individual needs and limitations while embarking on this journey of self-exploration.

    Resources for Further Exploration:

    For further enlightenment on dance and movement therapy, a plethora of resources beckon. Books, websites, and professional organizations furnish valuable insights and support for aspiring movement therapists and wellness enthusiasts alike.

    Final Words

    In concluding this discourse, dance and movement therapy stand as potent vehicles for promoting holistic well-being. Through purposeful movement and self-expression, individuals unlock internal reservoirs of healing and transformation. Whether grappling with stress, depression, or physical limitations, movement therapy offers a path to reclaiming vitality. As we chart the course forward, let’s continue to harness the healing potential of dance and movement for the betterment of all.

    As a dance psychotherapist, I invite you to join me on this journey of discovery and empowerment through dance and movement therapy. Thank you for embarking on this odyssey towards wellness with me.

    Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: dance movement therapy, dance movement therapy benefits, dance movement therapy florida, dance movement therapy for anxiety, dance movement therapy techniques, dance therapist, Movement & Dance Therapy

    Master Your Anger with These 3 Embodied Practices-2

    Master Your Anger with These 3 Embodied Practices

    July 8, 2022

    Anger can be a fuel for change! Whether you are seeking to master your anger so that you may effectively express it in your personal life, professional  life and/or for the purpose of advocating for a greater cause, these 3 embodiment practices can be of help to you. Anger is Power Before we dive in […]

    Read More

    Master Your Anger with These 3 Embodied Practices

    July 8, 2022

    Anger can be a fuel for change! Whether you are seeking to master your anger so that you may effectively express it in your personal life, professional  life and/or for the purpose of advocating for a greater cause, these 3 embodiment practices can be of help to you.

    Anger is Power

    Before we dive in to the embodiment of anger, I think it’s important to mention that the aim with this blog post is to inspire and support empowerment. In particular for those individuals who often experience their anger to be shamed or suppressed because they belong to a marginalized community.

    Anger is power, and it can be accessed through your breath, movement, and the sound of your voice. As we learn to become friends with our anger we also learn how to wield it with grace a precision in order to support effective change.

    ________________________________________________

    Watch the BodyWise Talk: “Your Body, Your Power” in which Susana discusses:

    🔹Your body: How embodiment increases autonomy
    🔹Your power: How to embody #anger as an emotional fuel for change
    🔹Embodied Practices for tuning in to and igniting your power.

    ________________________________________________

    1. Breath and Flame

    Anger is like a flame which can grow and shrink in intensity. For this embodiment practice we will be working with the breath and a visual of flame which represents our anger.

    Photo by Umesh Soni on Unsplash

    1. Begin by bringing your awareness to your breath and taking a few mindful breaths.
    2. Imagine a flame in front of you, (or within you… trust what comes up intuitively), and as you inhale this flame becomes bigger and bigger. Simultaneously move your arms in sync with your breath into an open and expanded position.
    3. As you exhale, imagine the flame shrinking and getting smaller and smaller without going out. Simultaneously move your arms (in sync with your breath) back towards the center of your body.
    4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 a few times or perhaps for 5 minutes.
    5. Conclude by coming to stillness, and allow the breath to return to a natural rhythm. As you open your eyes, you can offer yourself gratitude and bring the visual of the flame with you through your day!

     

    2. Movement and Sound

    One of the ways people often express anger is via their words, as well as their tone and volume of their voice. In this embodiment practice we will explore anger via quick, direct and strong movements paired with vocalizations to support the full expression of anger.

    Photo by Roozbeh Badizadegan on Unsplash

    1. Begin by getting into a stable stance with your feet wider than your hips and a bend in your knees. Make sure your knees and your ankles are in alignment to prevent injury. You can also do this practice while sitting on the edge of a sturdy chair, still keep your feet on the ground in a wide stance.
    2. Initiate the movement of your arms from your core which is muscularly engaged. Move your arms in quick, direct and weighted motions straight out in front of you. Your hands can be in fists, open palmed. Alternate between one arm and the other.
    3. With every arm motion forward, shout loudly and sternly “HA!” Sync each vocalization to your movements.
    4. Variations: You can explore the pace of your movements (faster and slower), you can explore the direction of your movements (up, down, sides, etc.) and you can explore how much power you place behind each movement and vocalization (softer, with more force, louder, etc.).
    5. Practice this exercise for at least a few minutes in order to really get a sense of how it feels in your body.
    6. Conclude by coming to stillness is a neutral stance or sitting position. Notice what sensations you are aware of in your body. Make note of any observations.

     

    3. Expressing the Wildness Within

    Sometimes mastering our anger is about having a little fun! When we play we access our joy which can support us in dealing with challenges. For this embodiment practice we will be exploring our animalistic side in order to express our anger.

    Photo by Adli Wahid on Unsplash

    1. Begin by getting into a stable stance with your feet wider than your hips and a bend in your knees. Make sure your knees and your ankles are in alignment to prevent injury. You can also do this practice while sitting on the edge of a sturdy chair, still keep your feet on the ground in a wide stance.
    2. Inhale deeply through your nose and as you exhale let out a loud RAWR! (that’s right a growl)
    3. Use your arms and incorporate your whole body as you embody the fierceness of a lion or tigress! Allow yourself to smile, laugh and have fun.
    4. Repeat this at least 3 times and with every try let your RAWR get louder and wilder. Let your body move in whichever way feels right to you.
    5. Conclude by coming to stillness is a neutral stance or sitting position. Notice what sensations you are aware of in your body. Make note of any observations.

     

    The next time you feel irritable, frustrated, angry or even rage… try these embodiment practices to help you tune in to your strength and feel more empowered. To watch a video of these embodiment practices and follow along, click here and you will find these practices demonstrated at the end of broadcast.

     

    ________________________________________________

    Sign up for the BodyWise Newsletter

    And get your FREE “21 Days of Mindfulness Guide

     

    The Mindfulness Guide includes:

    • Definition of Mindfulness & Mindfulness Practice
    • Benefits of Mindfulness
    • 3 Steps to Create your Mindfulness Practice
    • 5 Ways to Practice Mindfulness
    • Sample Mindfulness Practice Structure
    • Mindfulness Practice Structure Worksheet
    • Tips for Success
    • 21 Day Tracking & Reflections Worksheets

    Subscribe and start your #mindfulness journey today!

     

    Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: anger management, body, body wisdom, BodyWise, breath, dance movement therapy, dance movement therapy benefits, dance movement therapy for anxiety, dance movement therapy techniques, embodied practices, embodiment, embodiment of anger, embody, emotion regulation, expressing anger, master your anger, Master your anger 3 embodied practices, movement, power, somatic counseling, voice



    151 N. Nob Hill Road Suite 172 Plantation, FL 33324

    (786) 402-7078 susana@bodywisepsychotherapy.com

    Contact Today

    By submitting this form via this web portal, you acknowledge and accept the risks of communicating your health information via this unencrypted email and electronic messaging and wish to continue despite those risks. By clicking "Yes, I want to submit this form" you agree to hold Brighter Vision harmless for unauthorized use, disclosure, or access of your protected health information sent via this electronic means.

    BodyWise Psychotherapy, LLC
    susana@bodywisepsychotherapy.com | (786) 402-7078
    Mailing Address: 151 N. Nob Hill Road Suite 172 , Plantation FL 33324

    A Website by Brighter Vision | Privacy Policy

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn