Abstract
With a mind toward setting our dancers up for success and longevity, we share the ways in which mindfulness practices in the technique class relate to the development of community, empathy, and support of their fellow students. As dancers, we are acutely aware of the need to be constantly improving, and advancing as artists, and human beings. So often in this drive, however, we allow ourselves to be broken down, and betrayed by the negative thoughts within our own brains. In this lowly state, growth becomes stunted, and this internalized negative focus prevents us from supporting our fellow artists in their development. In this movement and experiential workshop, we consider ways in which mindfulness can be integrated in a technique class. Methodologies include 3-minute meditations, setting intensions/class focus, compassionate listening, recommended outside readings, and journaling. Supported by educational research, this workshop will recount our experiences with university-level dance students, who have implemented these practices throughout our classes for the past two years. We will share the ways in which implementing mindfulness practices, building healthy habits and daily rhythms in the individual dancer have contributed to the creation of a healthy, supportive, and empathetic dance community.
Presenters
Tamara Dyke ComptonAssociate Professor, School of Dance, University of Arizona School of Dance, Arizona, United States Christopher Compton
Assistant Professor, School of Dance, University of Arizona, Arizona, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
The Arts in Social, Political, and Community Life
KEYWORDS
Dance, Mindfulness, Health, Habits, Dance Technique
