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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

t'ai chi, contemporary dance, somatics

College

Fine Arts and Communications

Department

Dance

Abstract

Harmony and balance are critical for health and well-being. Many contemporary dance practitioners and advocates have long recognized the importance of integrating somatics (mindbody connective practices) into their art in order to help dancers find connections and harmony within their bodies and minds. As dancers explore connections within themselves, they find a connection with the world and a better understanding and appreciation of it. Because of the fastpaced western lifestyle that many people live, there is an abundance of stress and disjunction where the body and mind are concerned. Somatics has been known help dancers. Additionally, studying eastern practices such as t’ai chi can help individuals by showing them the principles of somatics from a different perspective and culture. Understanding the philosophy of t’ai chi and learning its movement as a somatics practice can benefit dancers today in their search for greater health and performance. Therefore, studying t’ai chi can help dancers feel connections within themselves as well as with the world.

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Fine Arts Commons

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