Mindful Dancing for Wellness in Counseling
Mindful dancing, often referred to as conscious or therapeutic dancing, combines the essence of movement and mindfulness, offering a transformative experience for those who engage in it. Originating from the core principle of embracing the present, this practice has evolved as a potent medium to convey emotions and inner turmoil through the art of dance. Counseling has recognized the potential of mindful dancing as a holistic tool for promoting self-awareness, healing, and personal growth (Koch, Caldwell, & Fuchs, 2013). At the intersection of mindfulness and dance, one meets an approach that encompasses both physical and psychological dimensions of well-being. Derived from Buddhist traditions, mindfulness emphasizes immersing oneself in the present, and experiencing thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations without any judgment (Kabat-Zinn, 2003). Dance, being an ancient form of human expression, offers a channel to connect with one’s true self, allowing introspection and self-exploration (Behrends, Müller, & Dziobek, 2012).
Multiple studies have reiterated the benefits of mindful dancing. One significant advantage is the emotional catharsis it provides, allowing complex emotions to find an expressive outlet that might be challenging to articulate in words (Quiroga Murcia, Kreutz, Clift, & Bongard, 2010). Furthermore, this form of dancing can elevate self-awareness, endowing individuals with profound insights into their psychological patterns. Not to mention, the amalgamation of dance and mindfulness can significantly alleviate stress, bolster cardiovascular health, and foster overall physical wellbeing (Zhang, Hu, & Pope, 2016).
Within the realm of counseling, the application of mindful dancing can be multifaceted. For individuals recovering from trauma, dance can offer a body-based intervention, facilitating the processing and release of traumatic memories stored within the body (Levine & Land, 2016). Those grappling with overwhelming anxiety can find solace in mindful movement, as focusing on bodily sensations can usher in a sense of grounding and calmness (Zhang et al., 2016). Moreover, in group therapy contexts, the communal aspect of dance can nurture a sense of belonging, facilitating non-verbal communication and collective healing (Koch et al., 2013).
In wanting to practice cultural competence with clients, counselors can choose from a variety of mindful dance approaches.
Mindful dancing, a blend of movement and mindfulness, has manifested in various forms throughout history and across cultures. Many of these practices share the common goal of achieving greater awareness, self-expression, and connection to oneself and others. Here are some notable forms of mindful dancing:
5Rhythms: Developed by Gabrielle Roth, this practice encourages dancers to move through five distinct rhythms: Flowing, Staccato, Chaos, Lyrical, and Stillness. These phases serve as a metaphor for human experience and guide participants through a journey of self-exploration.
Ecstatic Dance: This form of dance focuses on free-form movement. It provides an environment free from judgment where individuals can express themselves openly, with music serving as a primary guide.
Contact Improvisation: Originating in the 1970s, this dance form emphasizes physical contact, weight-sharing, and spontaneous movements. It promotes connection and communication between dancers.
Dance Movement Therapy (DMT): As a recognized form of psychotherapy, DMT uses movement to promote emotional, cognitive, and physical healing. It can be individual or group-based and is facilitated by trained dance therapists.
Biodanza: Created by Rolando Toro, Biodanza or “dance of life” is a system that integrates music, movement, and authentic interactions to foster deeper connections with oneself and others.
Feldenkrais Method: Although not exclusively a dance, this method uses movement to improve physical function and overall well-being. It emphasizes awareness through movement.
Nia Technique: This is a sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts, and healing arts. It is aimed at holistic health and well-being.
Authentic Movement: Here, movement emerges from an inner place of sensory experience rather than any external directive. Often done with eyes closed, it is a form of self-exploration.
Open Floor Dance: This is a resource-oriented movement and dance meditation practice. It helps cultivate mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and better body awareness.
Kundalini Dance: An ecstatic embodiment practice, Kundalini Dance uses breath, chakras, and sound to awaken the kundalini energy.
Sufi Whirling: Rooted in the mystical Sufi tradition, whirling is a form of physically active meditation. Participants whirl in repetitive circles, symbolizing the cosmic dance of planets and the spiritual ascent to the divine.
Butō: Originating in Japan after World War II, Butō is a form of dance theater that engages with deep and sometimes dark aspects of the human psyche. It is often improvisational and emphasizes transformation and metamorphosis.
Each of these forms of mindful dancing provides a unique path to self-awareness, connection, and healing. They can be practiced individually or in groups, often accompanied by music that enhances the experience.
The confluence of mindfulness and dance brings forth a therapeutic modality rich in potential. As counseling continues to evolve, incorporating innovative and holistic practices like mindful dancing can pave the way for enhanced therapeutic outcomes. The dance of mindfulness not only caters to the body but also resonates with the soul, promising holistic wellness.
References
Behrends, A., Müller, S., & Dziobek, I. (2012). Moving in and out of synchrony: A concept for a new intervention fostering empathy through interactional movement and dance. Arts in Psychotherapy, 39(2), 107–116.
Kabat-Zinn, J. (2003). Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Context: Past, Present, and Future. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 10(2), 144–156.
Koch, S. C., Caldwell, C., & Fuchs, T. (2013). On body memory and embodied therapy. Body, Movement, and Dance in Psychotherapy, 8(2), 82–94.
Levine, P. A., & Land, D. (2016). Trauma and memory: Brain and body in a search for the living past. North Atlantic Books.
Quiroga Murcia, C., Kreutz, G., Clift, S., & Bongard, S. (2010). Shall we dance? An exploration of the perceived benefits of dancing on well-being. Arts & Health, 2(2), 149–163.
Zhang, Q., Hu, J. J., & Pope, Z. C. (2016). The effects of mindful exercise on mental health: An exploration of exercise as a mediator. Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, 28(3), 292–305.
