SHINE Workshops

Clinical Somatic Movement for Scoliosis Workshop with Laura Gates

When: Saturday 5th October 2024

Time: 5-7pm BST

Where: Online via Zoom

Cost: Included as part of the SHINE Membership. £60 for non-members

Workshop Description

This 2 hours workshop includes a brief verbal introduction to Clinical Somatics, a work originally developed by the late neuromuscular pioneer, Thomas Hanna Phd. I will guide you through approximately 75 min of somatic movement practice on the floor, on your back, front, and sides, with a variety of movement basics. We will begin to identify your particular postural and movement patterns, and address them specifically with these gentle but powerful movement techniques. Focus for this class will include releasing tension patterns in the torso, rib cage, and entire spine. We will take the remaining time at the end for questions and discussion.

You will need a mat (or more padding if needed for your comfort) and 4 large folded towels to use as props. If you have any blankets or bolsters, have them handy also. Wear comfortable flexible clothing and socks, so that your feet can easily slide down the mat without friction. Somatic movement includes slow motion, so it does not create heat, but is very calming and cooling, so dress accordingly.

About the presenter

Laura M Gates is a Hanna Somatic Educator (CHSE) and Clinical Somatic Educator (CCSE) and a practitioner based in New York City and Averøy, Norway. As a former professional dancer, she toured internationally with the Lar Lubovitch Dance Co in the 70s and 80s and earned an MFA degree in dance from Bennington College. 40 years as a movement educator inform her work as well as her studies of kinesthetic anatomy with celebrated master teacher Irene Dowd in NYC. She was certified by both Somatic Systems Institute, Northampton, MA and Novato Institute, CA in 2007. She is a member of the Essential Somatics LLC team, training and mentoring clinical practitioners and somatic movement teachers internationally.  Her teaching includes online, in person, hands on 1 on 1 sessions, and workshops and retreats in several countries, often on the subject of asymmetrical posture and scoliosis.

This work offers noninvasive, effective techniques to improve symptoms, including pain relief, increased mobility, better alignment, with benefits to all aspects of health. Laura has a deep passion for putting these excellent self-care tools in your hands. Her unique style of teaching draws from her background in the arts, bringing creativity and rich imagery, and her deep knowledge from applying these techniques to her own scoliosis over 16 years.

• Weekly practice sessions every Wednesday* - we have a weekly group practice session suitable for beginners and more experienced yogis for Scoliosis & Spinal Fusion where we focus on strengthening our back, elongate our spines and find more balance and ease in our bodies! 
• 30-60min scoliosis safe practice videos - there is a full library in the membership section with complete practice videos focusing on different aspects or body parts to help you get the practice that you need in the moment.  
• Curve specific videos - I'm always trying to create videos that will be as relevant as possible. The library is full of videos that members have requested specifically for their curve pattern.
• Guided meditation and relaxation - scoliosis is more than a physical condition. Meditation and relaxation practices will help you feel more relaxed and balanced both physically and mentally.  

• Private Facebook group exclusive to SHINE members - connection and community is important with scoliosis! The Facebook group gives you the opportunity to connect with others that are going through the same thing and ask all your questions. 
• Access to live expert webinars and guest trainings - we've got some fabulous guest workshops from Schroth experts to strength training and Restorative Yoga! 
• NEW weekly Pilates practice* - 45min live Pilates practice every Sunday using small equipment such as weights and resistance bands for those who need a little more strength & stability! 
• NEW members-only 1:1 sessions** - access to 30min Express SHINE 1:1 sessions for those who need a little bit of extra support and specific advice.