In many cases less effort will bring more reward if what you are working on is done carefully and with full attention to your own body and how it is aligned before, during and after a movement or movement sequence. It is not always how much you do but rather how much benefit you can derive from your time spent practicing both physically and mentally. In acquiring this new skill the initial learning is often a struggle and it takes time to become integrated with your dance technique. Using imagery effectively is a skill, like reading, that over time will become ‘automatic’. Using imagery can also establish a sense of positive well-being and help to release tension. They not only increase postural awareness but can also be used to improve the technical execution of dance movements or to inspire a greater emotional connection with the physical representations of a choreographic piece. Imagery techniques can be incorporated at any stage of dance training. Spatial awareness involves the ability to imagine movement and to think about spatial relations in terms of body orientation. Imagery helps humans to become more spatially aware. The link between image, thought and movement has been well documented for decades. The body is able to interpret the images we form in our minds and uses our five senses and our emotions as pathways for experiencing a ‘thinking body’. This mind-body connection is a great tool to use when dancing as the dancer can more easily integrate thought, emotion and action when processing information. When we are stressed, anxious or upset, the body may try to tell us something is not right through physical sensations or changes like high blood pressure, back pain or headaches. The body responds to the way we think, feel and act. This imbalance compromises balance control, especially during jumping and turning actions. Tension in the neck and lower back becomes apparent as the ribs open to the front, disturbing the balanced relationship between the pelvis, rib-cage and head. Common ‘corrections’ used in dance like ‘ pull up through your spine’ can often contribute to this incorrect placement of the body. For example a common problem is when the weight of the body is carried too far backward. Imagery is one of the best tools to help in the exploration of postural alignment. These imbalances are mostly addressed by stretching and strengthening the body correctly, but it is also useful to explore the use of mental imagery to assist in this process. This prevents the spine from becoming fixed in abnormal positions and lessens fatigue because muscles are being used more efficiently, allowing the body to use less energy.ĭue to the very complex nature of dance technique, every dancer is likely to have muscular imbalances that will affect good alignment. It also helps decrease the normal wearing of joint surfaces and reduces stress on the ligaments holding the joints of the spine together. One of the most convincing reasons is that it keeps bones and joints in the correct alignment so that muscles are used properly. There are many benefits to working towards achieving good posture. Good posture can be described as the most mechanically efficient positioning for the body and reduces the risk of strain or overuse problems, like backache and muscular pain. It also improves overall balance and body control.ĭancing with correct alignment makes dancing more comfortable. Proper body alignment and posture are essential to dancers as it makes them appear more elegant and confident. The Use of Imagery for Posture and Alignment Control in Dance
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