Subtlety and Simplicity in the Somatic Practice of Butoh - Eastwest Somatics Institute

Presenter: Lani Weissbach Faculty, Virtual Studio Coordinator Organization: Eastwest Somatics Institute https://www.eastwestsomatics.com/ Location: USA ISMETA Approved Training Program Butoh is a hybrid form of dance theater that emerged in post–World War II Japan and is now practiced around the world. In Shin Somatics training at the Eastwest Somatics Institute, butoh is explored as an approach to Intuitive Dance, one of the program’s three core pillars. In this mini-session, Lani will begin with a brief overview of her approach to somatics, followed by an introduction to butoh as a form of somatic movement education and therapy, highlighting a few of its distinctive features. Participants will then be guided through a simple, accessible butoh practice that encourages a shift in perception as the body changes its form from moment to moment. Materials and Space Participants will need a small open area for movement and some padding for lying on the floor. If getting down on the floor is not accessible, participants can lie on a smooth, firm surface such as a bodywork table or bed. Learning Goals • Discover the value of doing less through slow, subtle, and sometimes barely perceptible movement. • Practice meeting awkward, unfamiliar, or uncomfortable moments with curiosity, ease, and trust. My work is informed by a variety of somatic practices including Eastwest Shin Somatics, BMC, Laban/Bartenieff, Butoh, Mindfulness Meditation, Hatha Yoga, contemporary dance practices and Qigong. Contact me through my website www.laniweissbach.com or email: laniweissbach@gmail.com. For more information about Eastwest Somatics, visit: www.eastwestsomatics.com For more information about ISMETA please visit: https://ismeta.org/