Most of what we do is neither conscious nor volitional. Until we become aware of what drives us, be it thoughts, emotions or body dispositions, we are powerless to change. The body takes a shape before the mind consciously identifies a thought or feeling. Our physical being is the most direct point of intervention.
— Janet Crawford, neuroscientist
Background and methods
My teaching, training and coaching are based on my theatre background and Somatic Movement Coaching. Starting from the body, the voice and awareness of space, is a very different approach than what most of us are used to. But this can give you unexpected insights and provide tools for changing things you are struggling with. You will be surprised how simple and practical work on postural alignment, fluidity and ease in movement and exploring qualities and colours of your voice, gives you self-confidence and great energy. It will help you to connect and enhance your effectiveness. Working with like-minded creative artists from the performing arts I have designed methods helping people to communicate and express themselves at a higher level. As a Somatic Movement Coach I work with the intelligence of the body. By creating more awareness of our body and its movements, and investigating our actions and perceptions, we can find out who we truly are; the starting-point is to look beyond conditioned self-images, habits and patterns of thinking, moving and living. Also stress is a major factor. High-pressure jobs, continuous reorganisation and competition in personal and professional life are all potential stress factors. Often our survival mechanisms take over and we are not always aware of what triggers our behaviour. Recognising your somatic responses for instance, to stress, and training the body to ground and centre will help to change behaviour. You will respond more professionally, unleash creativity and enhance personal presence. My collaboration with the Rotterdam School of Management helps me to stay informed about new scientific research on nonverbal communication. For example: Research shows that posture and movement (including facial movement) influence neuroendocrine levels and behaviour.