News - Shall We Dance

by Life Positive

Aimless browsing over the Internet led to a discovery of the world of arts-based therapies on the Internet. Further research and keen interest led her to become a student of the Creative Arts Therapy programme at Drexel University in USA. Her strong background in dance made Movement Psychology a natural choice, and dance therapy is a part of this.

Movement is to dance therapy what words are to verbal therapy. The movement dialogue between the therapist and the clients paves the way to health for the latter.

Even though language is the most common form of communication, a lot of clients have lost the ability to have a coherent conversation. Some others find it difficult to verbalize their thoughts and feelings. This is where the arts play an important role. What people are unable to verbalize, they may be able to express through a game, a drawing task, or a movement. Play is the first form of human interaction, and often the most comfortable. Dance/Movement therapy is based on sound psychological theories. The basic premise of this area of work is the mind-body connection. It is believed that any mental condition is manifest on the body level, and hence, by bringing about change on the body level, one can impact the mind. The idea is to make the client more present in their body, so they can tap into their feelings, and better understand their needs.

Akhila has several clients who are being helped regularly through this unique therapy. She is in the process of setting up her practice as an arts-based psychologist and wellness consultant, and plans to consult with schools, hospitals and institutions in and around Mumbai very soon.
Visit: www.dancingcures.com