If you are thinking of coming to class for the first time, here are some tips to help you get the most out of it.
1 - Cultivate a beginner’s mind set
It really is different from anything else, so come with an open mind. People say it is…
a bit like yoga with an extra dash of mindfulness
like Alexander Technique but with more movement
a recreation of the organic way in which babies learn to move, reach, sit, crawl, stand and walk
None of those may make much sense to you. So, try for yourself to find out what your experience of it is.
2 - Comfort is king
Take the time to get comfortable at the beginning and throughout each lesson. I will guide you to do this.
This will really pay off as you will be able to let go of unneeded effort and tune into your own body’s intelligence – its sensations.
Wear anything you can move in easily, with nothing tight
You can use mats and props in the studios or bring your own
Some people use a small pad or larger block under their head when they lie down
Padding can be put under any part of you that is uncomfortable
You can put on a blanket or extra layers to stay warm
If you are hard of hearing let me know. Position yourself so you can hear well or see me as I speak
You can change your position any time you like, if that helps
If you have particular challenges, let me know ahead of time so that I can be ready with ideas for your comfort
3 - Resting is not lazy…it helps you learn
Rests are an inbuilt part of the rhythm of each Awareness Through Movement® lesson. They allow you to refresh your attention and to notice the effects the movements so far have had. In short, they help you learn. We rest in all these ways.
Pause briefly after each movement. Let yourself settle. Then move again
I ask the whole class to rest every now and then, after each short section of movement explorations
Take extra rests as soon as that idea comes into your head
Opt out for a while, listen to the movements I describe and sense them vividly in your imagination instead
4 - Enjoy the ride, forget the destination
Awareness Through Movement® is not like a typical exercise class. There is no goal you must try to attain, nor any sense of perfection for you to emulate. So, you will not find me demonstrating any moves. Rather I will guide you on how to explore a movement for yourself…and improvement will come. Everybody can do the class in their own way, at their own level of ability and interest.
Go slowly
Make each movement small and easy
Be playful, try out variations
Miss out sections of the lesson and replay others that interest and please you
I’d love to hear how you get on or if you have questions. Drop me an email and I will try to help