Awareness Through the Senses: A Multisensory Approach to Improvisation

This paper will discuss some of the artistic practices of dance improvisers which can be utilized to enhance sensory awareness. Similarities to witnessing internal experience derived from Authentic Movement practice are utilized to connect the artistic to the clinical experience. Artistic practices related to as well as neuro biological function of several sensory systems of the body are discussed to present some of the benefits and challenges to increasing awareness of these various senses. Clinical application of the material for select populations is also discussed.