Mary Builth

Keywords: Aboriginal dance, integration authentic movement, expressive movement, unfolding movement

Page #: 65

The paper is based on a workshop which aimed to explore links between cultures through the power of the dance. The relationship between Aboriginal culture, dance and mother earth is explained. A description of the experiential component of the workshop demonstrates the potential for dance movement therapy to transform a person into an integrated expressive being. Through connection of the inner and outer being it offers the opportunity for personal power and healing.

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Keywords
dance movement therapy, cancer support, alternative healing, attunement, transforming, courage, spirituality

Page #: 184

This case study is about the use of dance movement therapy with a dear friend and professional colleague of the author who was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer. Together we explored the alternative healing method of dance movement therapy along with conventional medical care. My intention was to listen to her needs and give positive support physically, mentally and spiritually whenever possible. Through a creative process I provided movement expression, allowing release of inner feelings and transforming them into dance. Through attunement, progress owed, my client showed great courage and very positive reactions to both my methods and processes. Her use of creative expression and her dance motifs were empowering and gave her great satisfaction. As inner feelings are allowed expression, many negative feelings can be transformed in movement from negative to positive, supporting optimism, hope and courage. Dance movement therapy can reduce feelings of isolation through shared movement support, and provide an access to spirituality.