Just as dreams and active imagination are used to bring to consciousness the symbolic, instinctive images of the psyche, we can also learn to become more aware of the somatic aspect of unconscious material. In this lecture we will explore authentic movement, a form of active imagination in which an individual begins to focus attention inward, on bodily sensations, images and feelings which are then allowed to develop into spontaneous movement. The role of the analyst is to act as a container and silent witness to what is emerging from the patient's unconscious. Drawing from clinical examples and analytic theory, we will address some ways of accessing the somatic level of the unconscious, the development of symbolization as a bodily experience, and the relationship of witnessing to the somatic counter-transference.
Workshop: Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
In this workshop we will explore some of the principles of authentic movement, with particular attention to focusing inward in order to more carefully attend to the unconscious as it is carried and experienced in the body. This work is done with one's eyes closed, and requires no previous movement experience. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Wendy Wyman-McGinty, Ph.D., ADTR, is a Jungian analyst, clinical psychologist, and registered dance/movement therapist. In addition to her private practice in West Los Angeles, Dr. Wyman-McGinty supervises and trains clinicians in the practice and application of authentic movement.