People often ask what equipment they need to come to classes in Awareness Through Movement. You only need a few everyday items as the pictures show. I always give extra guidance on this within the class too.
Alternative set-up if getting to the floor is tricky for you > a bed works well > clear your soft covers and pillows out of the way > have a folded towel to use under your head
Not comfortable on the floor?
Even if you have limited mobility, you can join the class lying on your bed, as long as you clear a nice flat space. You can have your extra props to hand to use when you need to.
Keeping cosy
I hate being cold so I always have my winter warmth kit nearby so I can enjoy and get the most from class for at least half of the months of the year!
Winter warmth kit > blanket, hat, gloves…you might even want to bring along a hot water bottle
Why go to all this trouble?
When you start off your class feeling comfortable, it helps you relax, settle in and become absorbed in the present moment. This translates as SAFETY for your autonomic nervous system.
Muscle tension you didn't even know you had will start to let go, melt away. Feel yourself softening around your ribs and shoulders and back and hips and everywhere...to meet the ground, mould to the ground more fully.
Daring ventures in movement and in life
Then the teacher guides you in movement adventures - from small gestures to all-encompassing head-to-toe motions. Moving in ways that feel familiar to you...and in ways half-remembered...and completely unknown.
As John Bowlby, pioneer of attachment theory knew, a safe, secure foundation enables confident daring ventures - in life as on the mat.
“Life is best organised as a series of daring ventures from a secure base.”