My Approach

A BodyMind Approach

Whether it’s breathing, mindfulness or any of the approaches I teach, Somatics is in the mix.

The term comes from the Ancient Greek “Soma,” meaning the body. My “Somatic” work involves awareness, movement and bodywork. It emphasizes the perception, acknowledgement and understanding of how our physical sensations and experiences can be used to help shape who we are and how we react to the world.

“You can learn a lot just by watching.”
-Yogi Berra

I call this a BodyMind approach that I always teach in a trauma sensitive way. It’s informed through a variety of sources and approaches including:

Being in Movement® mindbody education (BIM) Created by Paul Linden, PhD at the Columbus Center for Movement Studies, with whom I still collaborate and practice. This practical empowering Somatic approach focuses on helping people work with their body’s distress responses which often trap them in their own thoughts and actions. Paul has used and taught this system around the globe in countless personal growth, trauma, conflict resolution and peacemaking efforts.

Mindfulness approaches Many mindfulnes practices from my favorite teachers and traditions including MBSR (Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction). Created by Jon Kabat-Zin at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. I also incorporate Mindful meditative and pain relief practices from many of my other favorite practitioners.

Breathing and Breathwork From an assortment of martial arts, mindful and movement traditions including the teachings of Koichi Tohei, one of a handful of people to attain the 10th Dan or Black Belt level in Aikido.

Principles from the non-violent martial art of Aikido The Art of Peace. A movement art associated with Somatic Healing and Educational Practices. An art some describe as a moving meditation in the midst of chaos. I currently hold the rank of Sandan (3rd Degree Black Belt), awarded by Andrew Sato, Nanadan (7th Dan) Aikikai Shihan, Founder and Chief Instructor of the Aikido World Alliance, as recognized by the Aikikai in Japan. Some of the principles I teach include the cultivation of purposeful movement and being centered in the present. In other words the ability to remain calm and empowered in the midst of distress.

Complimentary not Alternative

I view my work as a complimentary practice that can be used alongside many Psychotherapeutic Models, especially talk therapy. Although these techniques can be done as a stand alone practice, I do not consider them to be a complete replacement for those in or seeking treatment for mental health situations.