This class was like a class I had
never taken before. I was able to learn about many types of disorders
and forms of stress and ways to cope and manage with these disorders
through dance therapy. We learned how many things in life are in a cycle
and therapeutic encounters such as joining, attunement, and kinesthetic
empathy. We also learned about people who are important to dance
movement therapy such as Marian Chace, Blanch Evan, and Mary Whitehouse.
Lastly, I learned how dance movement therapy can truly impact your
mental health and well-being.
Sometimes going to class
I felt a little stressed or tired, but I truly felt heard when I was
able to share how I was feeling. This was the first class I had ever
taken a class where I learned all the students’ names and interacted with all
the students at least once through the many activities we did. I also
had never had a professor who always asked how I was feeling and made us
feel all equal. Many of the aspects we learned changed my opinion of
some people who deal with mental health issues because I had not known a
lot about it, and it changed how I viewed some of these individuals. I
now have a new perspective for people who deal with mental health issues
and know not only how to cope myself, but also help others.
Now that I know many of the techniques, I can implement them when I
feel stressed. So, when I am stressed, I can do some techniques such as
mirroring or grounding. I can also help others by using some of these
techniques with them. I can also be more present when my body is moving
because I am not focusing on what I cannot control. Lastly, I have
learned that everyone may be dealing with some mental health issue, and
it is important to support others and guide them through their issues.
Thank you so much Professor Morejon and I hope to see you in the future!
6
We All Connected More
Olivia White
When I enrolled in DAN291, I did
not expect to learn as much as I did through this class. Not only did I learn about how dance
movement therapy can help the lives of so many, especially those with mental illness,
but I learned to be more open-minded about what people are going through. This
class taught me so much about different disorders, such as schizophrenia, OCD,
depression, and many more.
Daily movement is something that
I didn’t appreciate because I never had to use it to get me through the day -
it just came naturally. From this class, I have learned how movement and dance
can be life-changing for some. I realized how fortunate I was that I never had
to think about this before, how so many people struggle and experience
difficulties, and how something as simple as breathing and reflecting can make
a huge difference.
The activities we participated in
throughout the semester were much different than any other class I have taken.
It felt uncomfortable to make eye contact with my classmates who were strangers
at first, but as the semester progressed I became more comfortable with
everyone and we all connected more. It was very interesting to see how everyone
perceived movement differently and how we all expressed our emotions
differently. Although it was awkward at first, I think this class prepared me
for future situations where you have to be uncomfortable.
I will apply the techniques that
I learned from this class to my everyday life by taking a moment and reflecting and analyzing how
I am feeling. Often, I think I am too busy to take a moment and pause and think
about how I am feeling. However, I have learned that being aware of my feelings
and understanding how my actions reflect the way I feel is very important in
contributing to a stress and anxiety-free life. With school, work, thinking
about the future, etc. as part of my everyday life, I know it is easy to become
overwhelmed with stress. Being aware of my mind-body connection will allow me
to relieve some stress and feel better and more confident.
7
In Tune with My Own Personal Movements
Prior
to taking this class I had an entirely distinct view of what it would
be like; I was left pleasantly surprised. I anticipated it to be merely
focused on the movement and its usage in therapy; instead we were able
to unfold and dive deep into a multitude of interesting concepts, a few
of them being: body and mind integration, mindfulness, non-verbal
communication and metaphorical movement, belonging and community,
physical and emotional release, the relationship with psychological
disorders and individual expression. With each topic that we delved
into, alongst a corresponding impactful figure in the field, I admired
the interconnection between philosophy, psychology and sociology that we
were able to explore individually and collectively as a class. Being a
ballet dancer for most of my life I found it freeing to be able to move
without the pressure of perfection and instead hone in on my current
emotional state and allow my movements to release underlying feelings
with the absence of words and instead an alignment of my mind and body. I
have developed a newfound importance for acknowledging my body’s
movements and of those around me, as I attempt to derive implicit
meaning and ground myself in the present moment and the community that
encircles me.
The
structure and teaching style of the class significantly supported my
learning throughout the semester. Beginning the class with our circled
check-in, I was able to acknowledge the feelings that I entered the room
with that morning and limit or embrace their influence on my mood.
Having those moments of mindfulness, despite being brief, I believe
assisted me in determining my mindset for that current day and accepting
the irregularities that were concerning me. Subsequent to our movement
exercises, despite their unique nature, I felt more present in my body
as I felt encouraged during class to embrace all aspects of authentic
movement regardless of how awkward they may feel at first. Aside from
the attunement, freedom and connectedness I felt towards myself and my
peers, I equally felt inspired. Drawing on ancient philosophies and
current practices from notable figures such as Joseph Campbell, Dr. Dan
Siegel, Trudi Schoop and Blanche Evan, I found myself questioning
various aspects of society’s structure and our expected behaviors.
This
course has significantly enhanced my self-awareness and stress
management that I will apply to both my professional and personal life.
Identifying my emotions, body movements and thoughts will allow me to be
more alert about the emotional states I possess when I begin certain
tasks or interactions, allowing me to adjust my behavior accordingly.
Additionally, being more in tune with my own personal movements I can
identify underlying feelings that I was not previously aware of as well
as for those around me. Analyzing body language from this lens will
assist me in interpreting the emotions and internal feelings of those
around me whether they be friends or colleagues. Through this awareness I
can find methods to support them and cultivate a safe and inviting
environment for them, akin to the one we created in class. Moreover,
through the relaxation, breathing and free movement exercises I can
develop a new approach to stress management by not limiting it to a
mental resolution. These techniques are not only capable of grounding me
and allowing me to healthily acknowledge the stressors but are also
capable of initiating long term creativity and curiosity for problem
solving.
8
Fostering Self-Awareness and Emotional Healing
Learning about
Dance Movement Therapy opened my eyes to how closely connected our minds
and bodies really are. It showed me how important it is to think of
ourselves as whole people instead of separating emotions and physical
movements. Exercises like mirroring and creating movement sequences
taught me how non-verbal communication can help us understand emotions
in ways words can’t. The circle concept, representing equality and
connection, stood out to me because it creates such an inclusive and
safe environment. Overall, DMT reminded me how powerful movement can be
in fostering self-awareness and emotional healing.
Class
was both eye-opening and uncomfortable at times, especially when we had
to maintain eye contact or stand still without fidgeting. Those
exercises pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me realize how much I
rely on distractions to avoid being fully present. Over time, though, I
started to relax and really tune into the people around me. Creating
sequences as a group and mirroring movements was a lot of fun and helped
me see how creativity and connection go hand in hand. By the end, I
felt more open and more confident in expressing myself without words.
What
I learned from DMT is something I can see myself applying in both my
career and everyday life. In my field of study (marketing and sales),
it’s a great reminder of how important teamwork and non-verbal
communication are for building strong connections. Personally, I think
incorporating mindfulness and purposeful movement could help me better
manage stress and stay grounded. I also see the value in slowing down
and taking the time to really understand others, whether that’s in a
professional setting or with friends and family. These lessons aren’t
just about movement, they’re about living with more awareness,
creativity, and connection.
9
Working with Partners and Meeting New People
My takeaways from the class are that
dance can be used in a lot of ways. I never thought of dance as a way of
therapy. I had never heard of dance movement therapy before signing up
for this class. I think it was really interesting to learn a new way to
use dance to help people. Throughout the entire class it was interesting
to see how dance movement therapy could help so many people with
different disabilities and illnesses. It also made me realize that
dance is really just any movements, it does not have to be anything
crazy.
Learning in class was very awesome and interesting. For
starters, I enjoyed working with partners and meeting new people. I also
enjoyed how much dancing and moving we did. It's pretty boring to stay
at a desk the whole day so being up and moving was very refreshing. I
really enjoyed your teaching style because you let us tap into our
creative side, while also teaching us useful tools to take into the
real world. Having us constantly putting ourselves out-here was pretty
awesome because it got me out of my comfort zone which helped me grow as
a person.
I will be taking many things that I learned from class
into the real world. You talked a lot about stress in the class and
whenever we did any breathing exercises it helped me calm down which
will be helpful to take into the real world. Similarly, when we walked
in every morning we would all go in a circle and say how we feel. You
made it very comfortable for me to express how I felt and that felt
really good. In a world where we, men, don't really like to talk about our
feelings, opening my eyes to expressing how I felt to a group of people
felt really nice. All in all, I had a great time while also learning so
much about how to treat people, and how to think about myself. I was an
awesome class and I had a great time and would like to say thank you!
10
A Symbol of Safety and Connection
This
class completely changed the way I view therapy and self-expression.
Before taking it, I was only familiar with traditional verbal therapy
and had no idea how powerful movement could be in healing. One of the
biggest takeaways for me was learning how movement can express emotions
that words often can’t. Understanding the use of Dance Movement Therapy
(DMT) for conditions like schizophrenia and autism opened my eyes to its
potential for people with diverse needs. I also found the importance of
being in a circle particularly moving—it’s more than just a shape; it’s
a symbol of safety and connection that creates trust. This class has
left me with a deep appreciation for how DMT blends creativity with
therapy in such an impactful way.
Learning
in this class was always interesting and fun, which made it stand out
from other courses I’ve taken. Unlike traditional classes in my schedule
that are heavily focused on lectures and exams, this one was hands on
and experiential. I enjoyed how the activities helped us get involved
with the material in a way that was engaging and memorable.
Participating in exercises like movement activities or mindfulness made
me feel more connected to the material and to my classmates. It was
refreshing to step outside of the usual academic routine and explore
therapy in such a creative and interactive way. This unique approach to
learning made the concepts stick with me on a deeper level.
Moving
forward, I plan to take what I’ve learned and apply it to my life in
meaningful ways. Mindfulness and being present are tools I want to use
daily to stay grounded and reduce stress. I also see how important
movement can be for emotional balance—whether it’s through dance, yoga,
or even just walking with intention. This class has also inspired me to
think differently about how I connect with others, encouraging me to
approach relationships with more empathy and attunement. DMT has shown
me that healing isn’t just about talking—it’s about feeling, moving, and
being truly present in the moment. This will stay with me as I continue
to grow personally and in whatever paths I pursue.
11
A Space Where They Don’t Feel Judged
Ali Ramos
One of my key takeaways from this
class is how dance can serve as a powerful form of therapy, helping
people with a wide range of diagnoses. Dance provides a unique way for
individuals to express themselves, offering a space where they don’t
feel judged. This form of therapy can be especially impactful for those
who struggle to communicate through traditional methods, as movement can
sometimes speak louder than words. I’ve learned that through dance,
people can connect with their emotions and experiences in ways that
promote healing. It’s inspiring to realize how much of a positive impact
dance can have on mental and emotional health and how it can be used to
treat various conditions.
Another important lesson I learned is the
significance of starting and ending a session in a circle. Beginning in a
circle, where everyone shares their feelings in the moment, helps
create a sense of equality and encourages openness. It reduces feelings
of nervousness and judgment, making everyone feel safe and supported.
Ending the session in a circle is equally important, providing a sense
of closure and connection with the group. This ritual helps everyone
leave the session feeling more grounded, hopefully with a sense of peace
and improvement from when they first entered.
I’ve also gained valuable
insights into the different techniques of Dance Movement Therapy, which
I will carry with me moving forward. Techniques like mirroring, making
eye contact, and the box method which all are tools that encourage
awareness of both body and mind. These exercises promote a deeper
connection between movement and emotion, allowing individuals to process
and express their feelings. What stands out to me most is the
importance of letting the body move freely, in response to its internal
sensations, rather than forcing specific movements. This process helps
the individual tune into their own needs and emotional states, allowing
for healing and self-discovery.
I feel like I’ve learned so
much throughout this class. Before, I didn’t realize how extensive the
field of dance movement therapy is, but now I understand that it has
been researched and practiced for years. The depth of knowledge behind
it is impressive, and I now see how widely it can be applied in various
therapeutic settings. Throughout the class, I never felt judged or
nervous; instead, I was excited to engage and learn. I particularly
enjoyed the interactive elements of the course, such as watching videos,
reflecting on questions through the discussion board, and working with
partners, which gave me the opportunity to connect with new people and
share ideas.
Looking ahead, I plan to apply what I’ve learned
to manage stress and anxiety in my own life. When I feel overwhelmed by
schoolwork or daily pressures, I will focus on using dance movements as a
way to release tension and clear my mind. Instead of resorting to
social media or other distractions, I’ll take time to move my body and
allow myself to process my emotions through physical expression. I also
intend to share these techniques with friends and family members when
they are feeling stressed or need support. This way, I can help others
navigate difficult emotions and offer them tools for self-care, creating
a sense of calm and balance in their lives.
Finally, this knowledge
will be incredibly useful as I enter the professional world. When I
begin my first real job, I know that stress will inevitably arise, and
I’ll be able to use movement and body-mind techniques to help manage it.
Having this understanding of dance movement therapy will give me an
additional tool to maintain my mental health in the workplace. It’s
reassuring to know that I have practical skills to rely on when I need
to de-stress and keep a sense of balance between my body and mind. This
class has equipped me with valuable tools not only for today but also
for my future career and well-being.
12
First
takeaway that I learned is to never take things too personal! You never
know what someone is going through and what may feel like a personal
attack, most of the time, is not! Second thing I learned is how to
relax. Nowadays, society emphasizes to always hurry, get things done and
never pause and take a moment be grateful for the opportunity to even
stress out about things such as: taking an exam, attending class, etc.
Now, for my third takeaway, always be grateful. Remember, your “unlucky
day” might be the dream life for most people. Quick tip: whenever you
think you have nothing to be grateful about, just look around.
At
first, I felt uncomfortable. It took a lot of effort to learn how to be
okay with feeling uncomfortable, but eventually, I got there! It's wild
to think that holding eye contact used to be such a big deal for me,
and now, after the circles and the final goodbye, I've become so much
more at ease with it. I feel good now: less stressed, happier, and more
aware of others. I’ve become less self-centered and gained a deeper
understanding that life goes on without me. It’s a pretty freeing
feeling, honestly! It's true freedom. Who would've thought that thinking
less about me and more about others would help ME in the end? The grass
is actually greener on this side!
I’ll
apply what I’ve learned by giving myself more breaks and not taking
things too seriously. Life is meant to be lived, even if it sounds a
little corny! Nothing is truly as big of a deal as we sometimes make it.
I’ll remind myself to breathe, ground myself, and stay calm. My mom
always says, "There’s a solution for everything except death," so
there's no need to stress too much. I’m learning to not let anxiety
control me, because on the other side of fear, there’s freedom! Holding
on to negative emotions does not help us, in fact, our body holds on to
those emotions so just: let go. I promise, you'll be alright. Enjoy your
life!
13
A Meaningful Path to Emotional and Spiritual Health
Dance therapy has introduced me to
the tremendous link between movement and emotional healing. I discovered
how nonverbal communication may be utilized as a therapeutic tool to
help people communicate emotions that are difficult to articulate. The
concept of using movement to access and release buried emotions in the
body spoke to me deeply, stressing the mind-body connection. I was very
struck by how dance therapy fosters diversity, making it accessible to
those with a variety of physical, emotional, and neurological
requirements. This motivated me to see movement as more than just an art
form, but also as a meaningful path to emotional and spiritual health.
In
class, I felt both interested and thoughtful as we discussed the
theoretical and practical sides of dance therapy. During the exercises,
we used movement to interpret emotions, making me more aware of how my
body expresses tension or delight. The sense of community produced by
these activities created a safe environment in which everyone could be
vulnerable and real. I greatly loved how movement may help bridge
communication gaps and establish trust between people. Overall, I was
inspired by the experience and the power of dance therapy to effect
personal and social change.
As a student, I discovered that the
concepts of dance therapy can be effectively integrated into my studies
and daily life. The stress of studying frequently causes me to lose
sight of the link between my body and my emotions, but the simple
practice of dance allows me to better release tension and increase my
attention. I've also seen the potential for employing dance to foster
trust and improve teamwork in team learning or joint projects.
Furthermore, dancing routines have helped me understand the value of
emotional expression and cope with academic obstacles in a healthy
manner. From a personal perspective, I see dance as not only a way to
relax, but also a unique way to talk to my inner emotions and help me
find balance in my academic life.
14
Learning About Different Cultures and Disorders
Through
my time in Dance 291, I have gained valuable insights about myself and
learned various techniques for self reflection. The class exercises
boosted my confidence in expressing myself. Connecting with the group
made me realize I am not alone, as many of my peers share similar stress
levels. Taking dance as a class provided a much-needed escape from
schoolwork, allowing me to fully dedicate that time to myself. I didn't
worry about assignments or exams, which made the experience even more
relaxing.
During
class, I felt heard and was able to express my feelings freely, without
fear of judgment. No one in class ever judged anyone on their
movements. Learning about different cultures and disorders was
incredibly enriching. I particularly enjoyed how most classes were
conducted as dance movement therapy sessions. This approach made me feel
seen and rejuvenated after each session.
Applying
dance movement therapy to my nursing studies is an excellent strategy
for avoiding nurse burnout. Nursing is a highly stressful profession
that demands significant emotional resilience. Being able to have an
outlet for relaxation is crucial. Reserving time for self-care will
enable me to provide the best patient care possible. Integrating these
techniques will help me maintain emotional balance and sustain my
passion for nursing.
15
Comfortable and Safe While Learning
When looking back on this semester, I
have many things to take away. My first takeaway is that it is
important to always check in with others. Every class we checked in with each
other to see how everyone is feeling. I think this is very important
because right away everyone feels welcome. We can understand if someone
is having a bad day by this check in, and this check in allows everyone
to express themselves. I think it was great that each class we all
understood each other’s feelings as it set up for a successful class.
Another take away I have is eye contact. It is very important to
incorporate eye contact into your everyday lifestyle. Whether your
dancing, having a conversation, or even just listening to someone, it is
important to make eye contact. This shows that you are engaged and care
about the other person. Eye contact is becoming more and more rare as
the world moves on and it is critical that I start to make more eye
contact in my everyday life.
I felt very comfortable learning in
this class. From the start of the semester, I felt welcomed. I enjoyed
the check in that we did each class. This made me feel acknowledged and
included in the class. I felt I could also be more open to the class
because of this. I also enjoyed how the class was a non-judgmental zone.
It embraced just being yourself and allowing you to move as you wish.
At times I felt awkward or uncomfortable, but I never felt judged and
after a little I became more and more comfortable in the class. I felt
great while learning, I think the set up was great with videos and
lessons along with dance. I always felt comfortable and safe while
learning.
There are many ways that I can apply what I learned this
semester to my life and study. First, I am going to incorporate more
eye contact in my everyday life. Whether it is in the office at my job
or just talking to a friend, eye contact is important. I also can apply
the stretches that I learned. Life is stressful and sometimes you need
to take a minute and relax. We learned many stretches that I can
incorporate into my everyday life when times get stressful. I’ve also
learned it is important to check in and say goodbye to others. I am
going to frequently ask how others are during my day and make sure to
say goodbye when leaving.
16
New Ways to Channel my Emotions and Energy
Looking back on this semester, I
realize how much I’ve gained from this class both mentally and
physically, even though I am not majoring in therapy or dance. One key
takeaway was the importance of fostering a safe and inclusive
environment for self-expression and connection always reminding myself
of the idea of the circle and the closing of the session. The check-ins
at the start of each class taught me to value acknowledging how others
feel and providing them with space to express themselves. This small
practice made everyone feel seen and set a positive tone for each
session. Another major insight was understanding how movement can serve
as a powerful form of non-verbal communication, helping to express
emotions and build understanding in ways words cannot. These lessons
expanded my awareness of how much can be conveyed through simple
gestures, rhythm, and body language.
Learning in this class a very
different experience for me in the positive way. Initially, I felt it
would be only another random dance class, but the way the class was
planned, it made us feel intrigued throughout the whole session. The
class created a judgment-free environment where people felt free to try, which made
it easier to engage and learn. I particularly appreciated the mix of
theoretical concepts, discussions, and physical activities, which
allowed me to connect abstract ideas with practical experiences. By the
end of the semester, I felt more confident and connected, not just to
the class but also to myself, as I discovered new ways to channel my
emotions and energy productively. Overall, the experience was both
creative and revolutionary.
As an entrepreneurship major, I’ve
found many ways to apply what I’ve learned from this class. In the
business world, creating a safe and inclusive environment is essential
for fostering innovation and collaboration, and I plan to incorporate
check-ins or similar practices with future teams. The understanding of
non-verbal communication will also help me better connect with clients,
employees, and colleagues by recognizing unspoken signals and emotions.
Personally, I’ve learned the importance of maintaining a balance between
the mind and body, which I plan to achieve by practicing a self check
in daily with me. These practices will help me manage stress and stay
focused, especially in high-pressure situations. Ultimately, this class
has taught me the value of self-awareness and connection, both of which
are crucial in my personal and professional life.
17
Emotional and Physical Well-Being
In my dance movement therapy class,
one of the most impactful takeaways was the way the sessions began and
ended, always in a circle. Starting class by sharing our feelings
allowed everyone to understand each other’s current state and fostered a
sense of empathy. It was eye-opening to see how this practice set the
tone for the session, creating a space where we felt seen and supported.
Ending class by holding hands and making eye contact helped to
strengthen the bond between all of us, cultivating a sense of community
and mutual respect. Another key concept was realizing that dance
movement therapy isn’t limited to helping those with illnesses; it has
universal benefits that can support emotional and physical well-being
for anyone.
Throughout the course, there were specific moments
that left a lasting impression on me. One notable activity was the
partner exercise where we had to maintain eye contact for an extended
period. This was challenging for me, as it required being vulnerable and
present with classmates I didn’t know well. While initially
uncomfortable, this activity made me aware of the importance of
non-verbal communication and areas I needed to work on, like direct eye
contact. It also encouraged me to engage with people beyond my usual
circle of friends. I enjoyed the exercises that involved working in
different groups, as they gave me the opportunity to learn from others
and understand how to design my own dance therapy sessions based on our
discussions. The professor’s calming presence and evident passion for
teaching made each session enjoyable and uplifting, creating a safe
space where I felt comfortable asking questions and sharing my
experiences.
Applying these lessons to my academic and personal
life, I realized that taking care of my body and mind is more important
than I had previously thought. The demands of school, social activities,
and being young can be overwhelming, and I need to pay attention to my
physical and mental well-being. Incorporating simple morning stretches
and meditation has made a significant difference, clearing my mind and
preparing me for the day ahead. I discovered that practices like yoga
and stretching, paired with mindfulness, can have a positive impact on
my productivity and overall mood. This class taught me that self-care
doesn’t just mean taking breaks but actively listening to my body and
responding to its needs, a practice that helps me balance my academic
responsibilities and personal growth.
18
The Connectedness Among People Through Shared Experience.
Dance movement therapy this semester taught me the importance of learning to be confident with
opening up emotionally and physically. It really showed me how dancing
can be such a potent tool in connecting the mind with the body and
letting those two parts communicate with one another about where our
state of mind may be and where our physical self is. I soon began to
realize that this ability to move helped me navigate my emotions better
than words often can. So well-planned were the activities and exercises
that they showed the therapeutic quality of movement, especially for the
development of mindfulness and awareness. Ultimately, this was an
enriching experience regarding the value of intentional movement in
fostering mental health and total well-being.
I liked how
active the class was, really open to DMT. Each session started with a
reflective check-in that built a safe space to share feelings and
reflections, and was intentionally closed to create a sense of
accomplishment and balance. Surprisingly, the interactive nature of the
exercises, along with the friendly atmosphere, made me really look
forward to attending each class. What I have enjoyed most with these
activities is the state of being vulnerable and present, releasing all
my previous pre-conceptual ideas about movement. It is in that respect
that learning becomes fun and captures one important element: the
connectedness among people through shared experience.
These
insights into DMT will definitely influence my future as a nurse and
allow me to be in tune with and understand a patient on a whole other
level. Knowing how to link the brain and body gives me keys to allow the
therapeutic processes to be opened for my patients through talking and
physical contact. For example, inviting the patient to engage in mindful
movement or to communicate non-verbally may favor building emotional
resourcefulness and provide the feeling of mastery in critical moments.
This class did focus on frequent check-ins and reflection processes that
allow me to develop a good therapeutic alliance with patients and
colleagues. DMT has personally influenced me in the direction of taking
care of myself, and others, being attuned to my emotional and physical
needs.
19
A Nonverbal Way of Communicating
Dance
movement therapy (DMT), founded by Marian Chance, is an alternative
form of therapy that uses movement in a group setting to interconnect
the mind, body, and spirit. In this therapy movement is very expressive,
but it serves functionally for the therapist to understand their
client. There are numerous different methods when it comes to leading a
group, a few being mirroring, the box method or Laban's cube. Each
method focuses on allowing the therapist to understand the client.
Connection is highly emphasized in DMT, it is important for the
therapist to cultivate a safe space that allows the client to be seen
and heard. Movement is a nonverbal way of communicating and this makes
it an effective form of therapy for those who have limited abilities.
I
really enjoyed the DMT course. I grew up as a competitive dancer so my
whole life I have been surrounded by very talented dancers. It was very
interesting to be put in a room of many non-dancers and observe their
movement patterns. Seeing everyone find joy just from simple movement
was very enlightening and it showed me how impactful dance truly is. I
will say that throughout the course it was challenging for me to fully
immerse myself in the tasks because I struggled to distinguish what I
would do as a dancer and what I would do as a regular person. I looked
forward to this class though because it felt like my reset, I realized
as the course continued how much relief, relaxation, and joy I felt when
leaving the classroom.
This
course taught me how important it is to take time for myself. I have
started to check in with myself every morning by writing in my journal,
sort of like how we check in during the beginning of every class. When I
am feeling super stressed while studying I will get up and move around a
bit until I feel ready to work again. I am so immersed in the dance
world and I would love to be able to share this type of therapy with
more dancers because I feel it is such a powerful form of therapy but it
is still so unknown. Additionally, since I am studying nursing it will
be interesting to see how my interest in DMT will guide my studies with
nursing later on. I really enjoyed this course and how engaging each
class was.
20
My
key takeaway from class is how important it is for our minds and body
to be connected. Most of the time we do not even realize that our body
is showing exactly how we are feeling. This class showed me that I need
to slow down and listen to my body to see where my problems are coming
from and how I should address them. This class also showed me the
importance of working and being comfortable with a group of people. All
of my other classes are lectures where there is little to no interaction
with the group. Throughout this course our class became comfortable
sharing, creating, and being ourselves in front of one another because
of the time that we were spending together every week. I am very
thankful that this class offered a different teaching style and allowed
us to express ourselves through our movements.
Throughout
this class I was able to learn skills that will help me throughout the
rest of my life. Learning in this class was totally different than how
teachers typically teach material. It was nice being able to interact
with my classmates and create a safe environment to express ourselves.
Throughout the semester I was able to learn valuable lessons about
stress management and ways to calm myself down, I also learned the
importance of eye contact and body language when talking to my peers. In
the beginning of class I was more hesitant to participate but because
of the environment created by our group it became easier to be creative
and comfortable. The lessons that were taught through group exercises,
classmates presentations, and informational videos were very helpful and
offered a low stress environment for me to participate in.
The
material that I learned about in this class will be very helpful for me
in the future. One of the classes that I think will have the most
impact is when we focused on eye contact and body language. Before the
exercises I would get nervous keeping eye contact with someone that was
interviewing me or someone I wasn't familiar with. But after that class
it really helped me be aware of my body language and my ability to keep
eye contact. I will be able to apply this to my future career in
meetings, interviews, and important conversations. I will also be able
to apply new ways of managing my stress into my future life. As a
finance major my future job will most likely have long stressful hours
so I will be able to use movements that I learned in class to ease my
stress and relax myself. I am subconsciously already using things that I
have learned in class in my life because what we learned in class has
the ability to apply to many aspects of life.
Thank you so much for another amazing class! Have a great rest of your year!
21
Fostering Deeper Connections
and Mutual Understanding
Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) has
been an eye-opening experience, offering me invaluable insights into the
interconnectedness of the mind, body, and emotions. One of my biggest
takeaways was how movement can act as a universal language, breaking
down barriers and fostering connections in ways that words often cannot.
I found the structured activities like mirroring and group
improvisations particularly impactful, as they highlighted the
importance of empathy and presence in communication. The reflective
check-ins and grounding exercises also stood out to me, teaching me the
significance of creating a safe and supportive space for expression.
Overall, this course revealed how intentional movement can serve as both
a therapeutic and creative outlet for growth and healing.
I truly
enjoyed the atmosphere of the class and the approach to learning.
Initially, I felt a little apprehensive about the vulnerability
required, especially during exercises like eye-contact sessions and
group storytelling through movement. However, the open and inclusive
environment fostered by our professor and classmates helped me embrace
these challenges. I found myself looking forward to each class as a
chance to step outside of my comfort zone and connect with others on a
deeper level. The combination of creativity and mindfulness made the
sessions feel both refreshing and transformative. By the end of the
course, I felt a sense of accomplishment in how much I had grown—not
only as a participant in the exercises but also as a more self-aware and
empathetic individual.
The lessons from this class are directly
applicable to both my academic and personal life. As someone pursuing a
career in a high-stress field, I now see the value of incorporating
movement and mindfulness into my daily routine as a form of self-care.
The techniques I learned, such as grounding exercises and using movement
to process emotions, can also be used to support others, whether in a
professional or personal context. Additionally, I see how DMT principles
can enhance communication and teamwork by fostering deeper connections
and mutual understanding. This course has motivated me to prioritize my
mental and physical well-being while also considering how I can bring
these therapeutic practices into the lives of those around me.
22
A Chance to Slow Down and Focus
Madison Quetgles
Taking
this dance movement therapy class has been an eye opening experience
for me. I’ve learned how powerful movement can be in expressing emotions
and connecting with others on a deeper level. The concept of mirroring,
where we reflect each other’s movements, taught me how empathy can be
communicated with our motions and not only using words. Grounding
exercises helped me focus on being present in the moment, which is
something I often overlook in my busy schedule. Overall, this class has
deepened my understanding of the mind body connection and the importance
of self awareness in building relationships and managing stress.
During
class, I felt a sense of comfort and uplifted presence. Sharing our feelings and
reflections at the beginning and end of class created a safe space
where everyone could be honest and open. I enjoyed how connected I felt with my my peers. I formed connections from working together, especially during
activities like mirroring, which required vulnerability and
attentiveness. Each session gave me a chance to slow down and focus on
my emotions instead of the daily stresses of school. By the end of
class, I always felt lighter, more grounded, and more connected to both
myself and those around me.
As
a nursing major, I can see many ways to apply what I’ve learned from
this class to my future career. Understanding body language and
movement, will help me better connect with my patients and understand
their emotions, even when they can’t express them verbally. Grounding
techniques can also be a valuable tool to help patients manage stress or
anxiety during difficult moments. On a personal level, this class
reminded me to take time to reflect on my emotions and prioritize mental
health.
23
Something
Fundamental to Human Behavior
Jack Marino
This
class was quite a unique experience.
While some classes sometimes go through the motions, this class was so
out of my element that it was impossible to go through the motions. I could expect a meaningful lesson to come
with every class, and sometimes, hearing the lessons was very moving. The lesson about the Hero’s Journey mainly
stuck with me, especially regarding how life patterns often repeat. Also, I do not think I have ever been so
closely involved in a more powerful performance and display of emotion as in
your performance of your life a few weeks ago. That was an incredible
experience.
I felt very out of place while in
this class at the beginning of the semester, as I’m sure almost everyone
did. I have never been a part of a class
like this before and was unsure how I would respond. However, I feel that throughout the semester,
I grew very comfortable moving around in ways I wouldn’t have before. I feel
like the materials were engaging and essential to anyone’s life. I learned so much about the history of DMT
and how it can be applied to people’s issues.
One of the everyday things you mentioned in class that will stick with
me forever is the island in the Mediterranean, where people live for a longer
time. You say it is because of the daily
dance and movement. That makes a lot of
sense to me as I feel the 6th sense when I dance when I am out. I feel so much better and happier; it’s
fantastic.
As I mentioned above, I can now put
a reason for the feeling of happiness when people/I dance. Moving is a cure for many things we have lost
sight of today. You also mentioned
cultures around the world in ancient times all seemed to know this, but the art
was lost. I can legitimately apply this to my life, and when I am not feeling
good about anything in my future life, dancing could be an excellent start to
help and more people should be able to discover it as well. Incredibly, something fundamental to human
behavior has legitimate health benefits.
24
A Very Good Reset
First off, I would like to say that
this class was unlike any other I have taken. I truly walked out of it
each time feeling more calm and grounded than when I walked in. My first
take away was how important it is to create a safe space for therapy
sessions and for more emotional conversation. A safe space allows for
each individual to express themselves in a way that feels comfortable
and right for them. My second takeaway was how important it is to
incorporate movement in your day-to-day, which seems obvious but I think
it is often forgot about, especially for college students. Movement
really helps clear one's head and for me personally, it is a very good
reset. My third takeaway was how effective mirroring is. I've never
really done anything like that, but its very interesting to see what
movements your partner/patient is expressing in comparison to your own.
It helps you understand them even better.
As I mentioned before,
this class really did help me feel more calm and grounded, especially
during periods of the year where I was stressed out about school or
personal stuff. Each class period I learned something completely new to
me, and was able to understand the effectiveness and depth of DMT. In
class, I always felt comfortable and I was excited to do the activities.
It was very interesting to see the different kinds of methods that are
used to help patients open up and express their feelings through
movements. I also enjoyed reflecting on the activities we did in class,
because it really helped me understand the reasoning behind them, and
their effectiveness. Overall, this class was an extremely positive
experience and it truly broadened by knowledge about DMT.
The
first (and most important way) that I would apply this class to my life,
is to prioritize movement. Especially this semester, I have had a hard
time being active or even getting outside. I often forget how good it
feels to go on a short walk, do a workout class, or dance to my favorite
song. I will make this more of a priority, especially when I am
stressed, because I know that it helps me clear my head a bit and
recharge. The second way I am going to apply this class to my life is
that I will check in with my family and friends more often. Even to
simply call them or text them and ask them how they are doing. Everyone
always has something going on, and I know that I appreciate it when
people check in with me, and I know my loved ones would as well. By
doing this more often, I know I can create a safe space for myself and
my family and friends to talk about anything.
Thank you Professor Morejon for a great semester!
25
Intentional Movement can be Transformative
This
course has given me a fresh perspective on the connection between
movement, emotions, and healing. One of my biggest takeaways is how
movement therapy helps people process emotions that are hard to express
verbally, fostering self-awareness and personal growth. The concept of
authentic movement stood out to me as a powerful way to explore
unconscious thoughts and feelings in a safe, creative space. I also
found it fascinating how rhythm and improvisation can help people tap
into their emotions and connect with others. Overall, the course
highlighted how intentional movement can be transformative, both
individually and collectively.
Learning in this class was a
surprisingly introspective experience. At first, I wasn’t sure how the
concepts would resonate with me, but as we delved deeper into the
activities, I began to see their value. Participating in the exercises
gave me a sense of freedom and self-expression that I didn’t expect, and
it was inspiring to see how others engaged with the material. It felt
refreshing to learn in a way that wasn’t strictly academic but deeply
human, emphasizing emotions and creativity. By the end of the course, I
felt more open-minded and connected, not only to the subject but also to
my classmates.
Even though my field is finance, I can see how the
principles from this course can be applied to my future career and
life. Finance often involves high-pressure environments, and the
mindfulness techniques I’ve learned can help me stay grounded and manage
stress. The idea of being present and self-aware is just as important
when making critical financial decisions or working with a team. On a
broader level, I’ve realized the importance of balancing logic with
emotional intelligence, which is essential for building strong
relationships and thriving in any professional field. This course has
taught me lessons that extend far beyond movement and into how I
approach challenges in both work and life.
26
Expressing My True Feelings
Dance Movement
Therapy is a comprehensive and empowering approach to well-being. It
blends creative expression, physical movement, and emotional exploration
to help individuals build resilience, find balance, and foster stronger
connections with themselves and those around them. With
this class being focused on dance movement therapy, I was able to grasp
the importance of movement. DMT enhances the connection between the
mind and the body which helped me to be more aware of my emotions and
how I can use my body to redirect them. I also learned that DMT is used
to manage symptoms of developmental challenges, chronic illnesses, or neurological disorders. It is also used to reduce symptoms of trauma,
anxiety, and depression by building self esteem and encouraging self
expression.
Being in dance 291 has
allowed me to feel what warmth is in the classroom. Not only did the
professor start off every class by checking in on everyone's mental
health, he also taught content to us in a way that we could connect to.
Learning different ways to manage my emotions and turn bad feelings into
good one's made me respect DMT. I understand that motion creates
emotion, and this phrase was illustrated throughout this class with all
of the constant moving and interacting with multiple people. I was able
to be vulnerable in this class because I knew that expressing my true
feelings would help the instructor to know how to aid my feelings, and
at the end of the class I would feel better.
In the future I
would like to be an athletic trainer, and being an athlete comes with a
lot of mental and physical stress. I think that incorporating DMT into
the culture for my job will be efficient because you have to understand
who you're working with. When I am able to connect with the patient and
get a deeper understanding of them, I can relate to them and figure out
how the best way I can help them. Being an athletic trainer isn't only
about the physical aspect, it's also about how you can encourage and
motivate your athlete to be the best version of themselves. With DMT, I
can help them express their emotion because they will know I care by the
check-ins, and mindfulness techniques while stretching and them being
vulnerable can help them heal physically and mentally.
27
Ask Everyone How They're Feeling
This semester has been the only one
where I truly contemplated dropping out for good. It all began normally,
everyone (including me) buzzing with excitement for a new school year! 3
days into the first week of class, I suddenly felt very unwell but I
kept pushing through thinking not much of it. A few days later, I
reached a point where I could not take it anymore and headed to the ER.
After 30 minutes of being admitted, I felt 10x better with whatever they
were giving me – but the doctors kept doing more tests and ordered more
scans. I initially was asked to stay the night, which turned into 7
nights. This is where my disconnect with school began and ultimately
where I started to lose motivation. I had missed the first 3 weeks of
school and would go on to miss many days afterwards from follow-ups and
just lack of discipline. Being apart of this DMT class, however, gave me
some comfort and connection that I really needed to keep going. I
learned that movement can be used in a creative manner as means of
therapy – not just "physical therapy" which we commonly associate with
healing. Although this type of class is against the grain in how we
typically learn, it expanded my horizons for new ways to help others.
Our class time was slightly early for me as a night-owl and late riser, add in a FAR!! walk
from the Pavia garage and I was often late. However, whenever I was on
time, having our opening of gauging the class' feeling was a great
barometer of how to proceed and adjust on the fly for everyone's
success. I always felt very comfortable in class, although, sitting on
the floor for extended periods was not ideal. Many of the perspectives
and methods presented in class were interesting in terms of their
applications. It was interesting to see how some DM therapies could be
used for different reasons. I must say that this class was not
necessarily one that I would sign up for – but given my previous
experience in TAL324, I knew that it would be engaging nonetheless. (I
still prefer 324 though) I would never have been able to do this class
with a different professor.
In terms of real-world applications,
many of the movements, methods and ideas can be applied in our day to
day. During the summer, I used to go on late-night walks with my parents
almost every night as a way to decompress and get moving. We are all
very busy people and often we did not see each other during the day that
much. This semester, I began to walk a little more often and just get
moving. Secondly, a new favorite of mine is to apply a check-in exactly
as done in class. I now approach my meetings and presentations with a
temperature check of the room. Ask everyone how they're feeling. It
makes people feel seen, heard and valued. I have the privilege of having
17 full-time employees and I make sure I know how everyone is
doing/feeling. (even if it's the surface level "good"). All in all, many
facets of this class can be applied to our day to day with some deeper
level thinking.
28
Mind Body and Soul Integration
Gabbie Tolbert
If
I had to summarize what I can take away from this experience, I would
harp on Dance as a whole and dance movement therapy as a holistic
approach to healing. We had a few instances to read and research DMT
truly as mind body and soul integration. This approach allows
individuals to be evaluated and “treated” entirely as beings,
incorporating the mental, physical, and emotional aspects. DMT allows
patients to interact with each of their senses. For instance strategic
choice of music can evoke emotion from past experiences and expressed
through outward movements. This classroom environment consistently
encouraged us to be self aware of how each movement made us feel. We
were able to thoroughly reflect on movements that could connect us to a
time in our lives just by being present and actively participating. From
this class alone, I really grew to appreciate the privilege of just
being in the space as having a successful DMT session requires focus and
cooperation.
Being
in the class was very relaxing. The grounding exercises and mindfulness breath-work, etc, allowed me to feel more present in the moment and
connected to my peers. I feel I was more emotionally connected to others
as each day we would share how we felt, it truly felt like everyone
brought their stresses but left the circle feeling more relieved and
comfortable. I enjoyed this class as I was able to self reflect and
express. Though scary at times, it was much easier to self-reflect and
relieve stress through freely moving my body and mimicking routines we
created. I didn't feel judged because my experiences were my own and
everyone respected our ability to be courageous and just move on impulse
from within.
I
truly feel a few techniques we learned in class can be translated to
the real world as a way to take a break from stress and find
understanding in real-time situations. Oftentimes, if I am overwhelmed I
find myself sitting on the floor or just in an open space and closing my
eyes to just reset. The ability to find quiet in the midst of all the
noise is truly an important skill to master. Physically, I have been
able to implement stretching and mindfulness activities when parts of my
body feel more strained than others. I now give myself grace and
understand that healing is a continuous process. We visualized and
researched many different types of DMT sessions and though we have found
ways to cope with things we are going through, the process is always a
forward motion. You never know what one may be going through or have
gone through, I appreciate more my full range of mobility and ability to
be conscious and aware of how I am feeling although it is difficult to
express. I now think I am better able to create a safe space for my
peers and offer a listening environment for one to express themselves
without fear of criticism or judgement.
Photo
The Men's Project (2018). https://mensproject.eu/benefits-dance-therapy/
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