Reverence for the Body

So many of us hunger for a different relationship with our body, one where we feel at home in our own skin and appreciate our unique physical form. We are told that our bodies hold wisdom and by listening deeply the body can become our guide. How do we cultivate a deeply reverent relationship with our changing physical nature? What does the body have to teach us about ourselves? Is our body to be controlled or held with respect? How do we learn to trust and listen to our body? These questions have fascinated me for many years. Reverence for the Body is a journey for those of us who want to become more trusting, knowledgeable, and appreciative of our physical nature. As Stewart Emery says, “Why not fall in love with the body you have been sleeping with all your life.” What could be more liberating and joyous?

Private Sessions

In Reverence for the Body private sessions we cultivate an ability to listen more deeply to our body. We start with the belief that the body has inherent intelligence and by trusting what our body has to say we learn what we are feeling and experiencing internally. The body becomes a guide giving us information about what needs attention and support.

Private sessions allow an individual the opportunity to explore a specific theme. For example, one may explore a place in his/her body that feels held, disconnected, numb, or conversely a place with a lot of vitality. By listening to what is present in the body we begin to give voice to that place in ourselves that needs our attention and care. Private sessions allow an individual time to deeply listen to oneself with the support of a Somatic Movement Therapist who acts as a facilitator and guide. Hands-on work, anatomical pictures, breathing and movement exercises, writing, and drawing may be included in these sessions. Sessions are an hour and cost $70.

Group Classes - coming this fall!

Reverence for the Body is designed to help individuals develop an ability to listen to their body and discover ways to feel more connected to themselves. We explore different body systems and structures to develop a greater awareness of their body’s landscape, body stories, and movement. Movement exploration, hands-on exercises, writing, and drawing are used as a means to deepen in our understanding of our body and kinesthetic experiences. This class provides time for personal exploration and an opportunity to share discoveries with a group. No previous movement experience is necessary to participate.

Classes starting in Fall 2007. Please contact me, donnella@bodywisestudio.net, if you are interested in participating.

To Schedule or receive more information:

Contact Donnella Wood at 503-234-5193 or donnella@bodywisestudio.net
For more information about Donnella click here.

Testimonials

"Reverence for the Body helped me become more comfortable and trusting of my body. I have begun a different relationship with my body - one based on curiosity and respect instead of one of judgment." Jennifer

Reverence for the Body was a journey of going deeper into the mystery of my body. I discovered the stories contained in my bones, organs, and muscles and what a gift it was to let these stories be told. I have a greater curiosity and wonder about my body and I hunger to know more about her. This experience has helped me feel more whole and connected." Mary

"For as long as I can remember, I have had the distinct sensation of being separate from the body that 'contains' me. It was as if it was another being altogether. This lead to resentment, which led to neglect, which, inevitably, resulted in discomfort and illness. With Donnella's generous and creative teaching I was allowed to experience first-hand the fabulous architecture of this fantastic body of mine. Not only did I discover the various quirks of muscles and the surprising color of bones, but I was delighted by a renewed sense of engagement as I moved through my days. I looked forward to class time. The personal sharing amongst classmates also deepened my respect for the 'containers' of others so that while I was concentrating on the physical beat of my heart I became aware of my emotional heart opening as well." Lyn