“Movement was my first language.” Grace, a 33-year-old Philadelphian, specializes in helping kids and people of all ages develop a deep awareness of who they are, lean into their innate creativity, process trauma, and move more fluidly through life transitions.
As a Dance/Movement Therapist (DMT) and Somatic Therapist, Grace stresses that “movement is so important for children. Moving is foundational to building their sense of who they are. Children’s individuation process is embodied.”
Moving, touching things, and exploring the space all allow kids to build body awareness. They build both physical and emotional fortitude in the process, and learn to interact with others, learn what their boundaries are, and have fun. Especially in this era of video games and social media.
“Moving teaches kids what feels good and what feels bad,” Grace shared. Those lessons have real implications for living a fulfilling life.
Movement and Trauma
Movement is not just child’s play. Regardless of age, movement can help trauma survivors by reconnecting body and mind. “All of our trauma experiences hit the body first. People who have experienced trauma and any kind of emotional wounding greatly benefit from reconnecting with their somatic experience (the felt sense of their body), learn to pay attention to their emotions, and find agency through movement,” Grace said.
This can be a powerful approach to healing from trauma. “Moving with intention can help you find your agency in your body. Once you build that inside you, nobody can take that away” says Grace, who believes that body-based therapies for trauma create a safe space for processing difficult experiences without words. This somatic work fosters mindfulness, reduces stress, and builds self-esteem.
Dancing and moving is not only for those that know how to do it. “We all have a creative drive to move and enjoy our bodies.”
Tip for Parents and Caregivers
Are you raising kids and trying to get their attention away from the smart phone or video game? Consider playing some music they like and join them for silly dancing around.
Healing from Trauma?
If you or a loved one has experienced trauma, consider exploring Dance/Movement Therapy or another somatic modality to connect with your emotions and body in a safe manner.
There are many places you can join for free that offer physical activities and opportunities to dance and move. Expand your healing journey by checking your local library for resources and exploring what is available at the City of Philadelphia City Recreational Centers.
Check the City of Philadelphia DBHIDS Community Wellness Engagement Unit and our Community Events Calendar for opportunities.
More About Grace: Grace started dancing at a very early age at the Settlement Music School, among other Philadelphia dance institutions. She later attended the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts and continued her education in institutions across the country.
