The Walk of Life is an innovative approach to non-stylised movement which works with movement as a physical and creative process. Movement scores are used as a springboard into motion awakening vitality and heightening awareness, transforming personal explorations into creative expression. Moving in response to inspiring natural environments is an integral part of the work.

Based on the structure of the body this approach fosters an embodied sense of presence. In a process which unfolds over time each participant is supported to follow the evolution of their movement practice whatever their level of experience. Participants include experienced movers, emerging practitioners and interested newcomers.

These workshops offer the opportunity to re-connect with the joy, strength, ease and simplicity that our moving being offers us. Grounding ourselves through an embodied encounter with the land which refreshes both body and spirit we rediscover our ‘place in the family of things’ (Mary Oliver). Moving in response to rock and water, tree, earth and sky each element elicits different experiences and movement qualities.

This approach to the body in motion has been applied in the arts and performance, education, self–development, movement therapy and daily life. It has proved valuable to people from all walks of life.

2009 Programme

Based on the beautiful World Heritage Coast of West Dorset and East Devon the Walk of Life was established by Helen Poynor in 1991. The workshops reflect the changing seasons in a variety of environments. This year’s programme includes a new four day intensive in September, as well as the popular 3 day Women, Rocks and Water under the spectacular cliffs at Beer Head. Once again the programme features a workshop combining Sumarah meditation with movement practice and an introduction to Anna Halprin’s Movement Ritual. The popular workshops with Feldenkrais practitioner Shelagh O’Neill continue with a new 4 day studio based intensive in February investigating the inter-relationship between non-stylised movement and Feldenkrais more deeply, and a weekend including environmental work in the autumn. The training programme established in 2007 has proved stimulating and fruitful for all the participants. A new 8 month programme commences in October.

View my website http://www.walkoflife.co.uk/main.htm