Mental Health and Functional Movement as it related to Belly Dance Improvisation
Joining the conversation is Project Band student Victoria Cruz who has a Master’s degree in Dance Movement Therapy.
We talked about introducing new behaviors and removing habitual behaviors using movement, especially in belly dance improvisation.
During this episode of the Baby Boomer Belly Dancer, we talk about:
00:00 Our guest, Victoria Kinsey Cruz
02:15 Before it was Project Band…
03:45 What exactly is Dance Movement Therapy?
05:52 Movement spectrums and how we show up in movement patterns
10:04 Use of movement as a therapy tool
11:30 Self-regulation and music as an organizing factor
15:17 Gaining access to better relationships and cognitive function
17:47 Willingness to try new things when you want accolades from the audience
20:05 Seeing courage, taking risks, and giving yourself space vs control
27:02 Mindset about the audience
29:04 Where each person is at and how to encourage small shifts
33:35 Navigating life through mirroring belly dance movements
40:49 Belly dancing with other Project Banders
47:00 The deep work and how small changes are profound and long-lasting
53:16 Another COVID silver lining
Bottom Line: Project Band is deep self-reflective work… and much cheaper than therapy!
With over 40 years in her chosen craft of belly dancing, Karavan Studio owner and professional belly dancer, Karen Barbee Adkisson, has been teaching students the art of belly dance techniques for more than 30 years and is dedicated to keeping live music performances as part of this artful cultural dance.
Join us as Karen’s inquisitive mind and unique perspective on a wide array of topics inspire, educate, and even entertain your sensibilities… because everything comes back to belly dance.
You can also subscribe to her YouTube channel or the Baby Boomer Belly Dancer podcast.