InnerMotion – The Guidebook – Sensory Body Mapping
Sensory Body Mapping is a practice that uses touch to cultivate a deeper sense of embodiment. By exploring your body with your hands, you create a tactile connection that brings awareness to each area, helping you fully inhabit your physical self. This technique grounds you in the present moment, bridging the gap between mind and body, and laying the foundation for authentic movement in your dance.
The purpose of Sensory Body Mapping is also to create a full, nuanced map of your body in your mind's eye. This awareness is important when dancing, as it allows you to move with intention and precision. Knowing the exact feel and position of each part of your body can lead to more expressive, accurate, and immersive dancing. It helps you stay present, preventing your mind from wandering and keeping you deeply engaged in the experience of movement.
Exercise
Use your hands to explore each part of your body. The touch can vary depending on what feels right in the moment; you might press firmly to feel the underlying muscles and bones, or you might choose to tap, pat, or stroke lightly to sense the skin and surface textures. This exploration is not just about physical touch; it’s about inviting a dialogue between your mind and body. As you move your hands across different areas, pay attention to the sensations that arise. Each touch should bring that part of your body into sharper focus, making you more aware of its presence and any sensations it might be holding - tension, relaxation, warmth, or even emotional echoes.
Through regular practice of Sensory Body Mapping, you can develop a more intimate understanding of your physical self, leading to enhanced control and expression in your dance, and a greater ability to stay grounded and centered.
