A Somatic Approach to Scoliosis"
Part One - May 22, 2010
11:00AM to 12:30PM
This workshops address the imbalances, chronic tension and pain of scoliosis, as well as other back/torso issues. Via the gentle, slow-movement sequences of Somatics, one can gain increased range of motion as well as greater control of, and sensation in, the muscles. We begin the process of unlocking the muscles that hold the spine, shoulder, or hip, moving toward restoration of full movement potential and pain relief. Both workshops together offer maximum benefits, but each class may be taken separately as well. The classes offer illustrated take-home materials for your home Somatics practice.
About the Teacher
Laura M. Gates is a Certified Clinical Somatic Educator and practitioner in New York, trained at Somatic Systems Institute. As a former professional dancer, she toured internationally with Lar Lubovitch Dance Company and received her MFA from Bennington College. Laura studied bodywork with Tyr Throne and anatomy with Irene Dowd.
"I danced professionally for about 14 years and was a dance teacher for over 20 years. My scoliosis was a source of constant nagging discomfort and pain and would go into a crisis state from time to time. I tried everything to help ease the symptoms, but somatic education in the tradition of Tom Hanna gave the first substantial and long-lasting relief and change to my back. I use these techniques daily for maintenance and health on all levels, and it keeps me dancing (with a much happier back) at age 58!"
—Laura Gates
“Laura is a true healer. With her deep understanding of Somatics, she has helped me face my scoliosis in an accepting, gentle, and incredibly effective way. She looks at how my scoliosis affects my whole body and my whole self, and she gives me the tools to continue to improve it even when I'm across the country. With her help, I have found incredible facility in all of my joints from spine to hip flexors to toes and I have found myself able to access my deep muscles much more easily. This has helped me not only dance with much better alignment, flexibility, and balance, but also with much better relationship to my breath.”
—Cressa Perloff, dancer, college student
$30 for one workshop, $50 for both Parts 1 & 2
($25 for one, or $40 for both workshops, if you pre-register)
