Immersed in Body-Mind Centering®: A Journey into Embodied Learning at Leben Nuova
"Support precedes movement."— Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen
Reflecting on my time at Leben Nuova SRL in Italy, I am struck by how deeply my understanding of movement, connection, and education has been transformed. My participation in the job shadowing experience, which was centred on the Body-Mind Centering® (BMC®) approach, has been nothing short of transformative. This immersive journey has deepened my appreciation for the body's innate wisdom and illuminated the profound impact embodied practices can have on learning and personal growth.
A New Perspective on Movement
From the moment I stepped into the learning space at Leben Nuova, I could sense the depth of exploration and discovery that awaited me. The educators—Gloria Desideri, Marcella Fanzaga, and Emanuela Passerini—created an environment of openness and creativity. Their guidance allowed us to delve into the intricacies of the muscular system, not just as a biological structure but as a dynamic network through which we express vitality, power, and connection.
Each day began with practices that invited us to explore our bodies in familiar and new ways. We focused on the principles of BMC®, such as the idea that "support precedes movement." This concept was not just theoretical; we embodied and felt it in every exercise. As we explored how muscles interact, provide support, and initiate movement from a place of stability, I began to see parallels in my teaching. These practices underscored the importance of grounding and support in physical movement, learning, and growth.
Embodied Learning: A Comprehensive Approach
The concept of embodied learning was at the core of my experience at Leben Nuova. This method goes beyond traditional educational practices, often prioritising understanding and theoretical knowledge.
In Body-Mind Centering®, learning is not just about acquiring new information but about experiencing it in a way that fully engages the body and senses. This approach was evident as we explored the muscular system—not simply by studying its anatomy but by feeling and embodying the movement and function of each muscle. Learning through the body provided a richer, more nuanced understanding that surpassed mere intellectual comprehension.
One key aspect of embodied learning is its ability to connect us more directly to our lived experiences. Throughout the job shadowing, I engaged in exercises highlighting the relationship between internal sensations and external stimuli. We practised movements that required us to be fully present, attuned to the subtle shifts in our bodies and the environment around us. This heightened awareness brought a new dimension to my learning, making it deeply personal and transformative.
The significance of embodied learning became particularly clear in the context of adult education. Traditional educational models often focus on cognitive learning and emphasise acquisition through reading, writing, and discussion. While these methods are valuable, they can sometimes overlook the importance of the body in the learning process. Embodied learning, as I experienced at Leben Nuova, offers a powerful alternative that engages the whole person. By integrating movement, sensory awareness, and personal experience, this approach allows learners to connect with the material more meaningfully and meaningfully. For individuals facing burnout or stress, embodied learning provides a pathway to rediscovering balance and vitality through the body. It encourages participants to move beyond abstract concepts and into a space where learning is felt and lived, deeply internalising Community through Shared Experience.
What made this experience truly special was the sense of community that developed among the participants. We came together with a shared curiosity and openness, and the support we offered each other created a safe space for experimentation and growth. The diverse perspectives and backgrounds each person brought to the experience enriched our collective exploration of movement and embodiment.
The collaborative atmosphere extended beyond the physical practices. We engaged in reflective discussions, sharing our observations and insights and deepening our understanding of the material and its application. These interactions were intellectually stimulating and fostered a sense of belonging and mutual respect. The experience reinforced the importance of community in adult education, where learning is not just an individual endeavour but a shared journey.
Transforming My Approach to Education
This job shadowing experience at Leben Nuova SRL has profoundly influenced my approach to education. The principles and practices of Body-Mind Centering® have provided me with new tools to engage learners in more meaningful and embodied ways. The emphasis on experiential learning, where knowledge is acquired and lived, resonates deeply with my work at the Nurt Foundation.
I am now more attuned to creating educational programs that foster responsible autonomy and encourage participants to take ownership of their learning journeys. The insights gained from observing the educators at Leben Nuova have inspired me to design programs that are not only informative but also profoundly engaging, allowing participants to reconnect with their bodies.
Conclusion
As I carry forward the lessons learned at Leben Nuova, I am reminded of the profound impact embodied practices can have on personal and collective transformation.
This journey into Body-Mind Centering® has been an extraordinary exploration of connection, presence, and embodied learning. Through the expert guidance of Gloria Desideri, Marcella Fanzaga, and Emanuela Passerini, I have gained invaluable insights into how we can relate more deeply to ourselves, each other, and the world around us. As I move forward, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to integrating these practices into my teaching.
Mobility implemented at the Nurt Foundation as part of the project "MOVED AWARENESS: In the current of a better life," financed by the Erasmus+ Program (project number: 2022-1-PL01-KA122-ADU-000070339).
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