Conscious Moving: An Embodied Guide for Healing, Learning, Contemplating, and Creating

by Christine Caldwell

Conscious Moving extends from one transformative we feel more human, more empowered, and more ourselves when we live from that place within us—and all around us—that simply moves. And when we examine and trust in the emerging and evolving movement of our minds and bodies, we can better harness the tools needed to expand our creativity, wellbeing, and learning.

Body-based psychotherapist, movement specialist, and renowned author-educator Christine Caldwell ( Oppression and the Body ) offers a radically ambitious mode of somatic awareness and inquiry—and shows how designing our own conscious movement practices can improve not only our own lives, but our relationships, communities, and culture.

This anthology explores how movement practices can help us be more present; more grounded and intentional in responding to and working with experiences in the moment; and claim our own bodily autonomy. Caldwell and contributors explore these key benefits and applications in four critical


Rooted in both ancient and modern scientific ways of knowing, Conscious Moving imparts fundamental principles and tools applicable to a broad spectrum of fields and professions. Topics explored in partnership with conscious movement practice Trauma and Oppression, Isolation and Loneliness, Addiction, Group Therapy, Sexuality, Creative Arts, and Grief.

Encouraging each reader to pay attention to—and honor—their own embodied intuition, Conscious Moving is a non-prescriptive guide to accessing body-based wisdom for personal growth, community impact, and widespread social change.

Genres: Nonfiction, Mental Health

296 pages, Paperback

Published June 25, 2024

Reviews

[Ag · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lately, I have discovered somatic movement and somatic practices, and ever since I have added those to my life, I can tell there has been some major difference in my life quality. So, seeing this book was an easy decision for me – I wanted to read it. And I’m glad I did!
I love the holistic, empathetic, yet deep and reasonable approach the author has, the attention to detail and seeing the big picture at the same time.
Now, I’m off to look for other books by this author!
I feel like I will be screaming from the rooftops about this book. It deserves all the attention it can get.

[Edie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am on a journey to rediscover how to fully inhabit my body and have picked up several books to help me along the way. I am still new enough to the study of movement that I do not feel qualified to speak to the content of Christine Caldwell's latest. However, I can say the information is presented in a clear and compelling fashion, with lots of footnotes for readers who want more information. I enjoyed the two halves, the first laying the foundation and the second providing real world examples. Thank you to the author, North Atlantic Books, and NetGalley for the eARC.

[Chantal Agapiti · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was curious to read the broader understanding of movement this book would bring.
The author explains how everything moves as movement means aliveness.
All disciplines are related: healing, art making, therapy, learning.
Movement doesn’t stay within’ our body, it continuous into our world.
When we can see the reflection from ourselves in all that surrounds us, we feel more human.
Such an interesting read.

[Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Conscious Moving" by Christine Caldwell explores the healing potential of movement, providing therapists and creatives with a rich resource to incorporate somatics into our practices. Drawing on over 35 years of experience as a professor, dance therapist, and senior student of Zen Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh, Caldwell seamlessly integrates contemplative practices, expressive arts, and education about the body's intricate relationship with emotions and memories. I loved how often I had to put the book down to engage physically with its exercises!

What distinguishes this book is Caldwell's multidisciplinary approach, as she delves into the realms of physics, geology, chemistry, and biology to highlight the interrelated connections between movement, healing, and emotional expression. By synthesizing wisdom from various scientific disciplines, she presents a holistic perspective on the impact movement has on our overall well-being.

As a registered dance therapist and body psychologist, Caldwell introduces readers to "The Moving Cycle," a framework she developed to teach her transformative methods to students. The book is divided into three parts, each serving a distinct purpose. In Part One, Caldwell lays the foundation of her work, offering insights into the theoretical underpinnings and the philosophical aspects that inform her approach. Part Two is a dedicated space for the voices of former and current students who have contributed their own journeys. This part really enriches the narrative with diverse perspectives and real-life experiences.

Part Three of "Conscious Moving" invites readers to reflect on the impact of movement in our own lives, asking us to consider how we consciously or unconsciously navigate through the world in our physical bodies. This section serves as an invaluable resource for professionals, providing a wealth of diverse exercises that can be seamlessly integrated into the classroom, therapy room, or any setting where movement can be explored as a tool for healing and self-discovery.

Caldwell's commitment to somatic psychology is evident in her role as the founder of the Somatic Psychology department in Naropa's Counseling Psychology program. Her dedication to teaching is evident throughout the book, making it accessible and practical for both seasoned therapists and those new to somatics.

"Conscious Moving" is an informative, helpful guide that surpasses the boundaries of traditional therapeutic approaches, offering a holistic and scientifically grounded perspective on the transformative power of movement. Christine Caldwell's expertise, interdisciplinary research, and dedication to her students make this book an essential read for therapists, creatives, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the mind-body connection.

[Gowe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Conscious Moving by Christine Caldwell introduces us to CM as a practice, its applications and benefits. Parts One and Three were especially informative. Caldwell's tone hit the right balance, so it was beneficial to both professionals and lay people. Having never interacted with the concept of CM before, I found this a very comprehensive introduction, without being overwhelming.
I gave three stars because Part Two was lackluster for me. While I find the idea to bring in other professionals to share their experiences noble, I couldn't connect with their execution. Part Two felt like an awkward back-and-forth from speaking strictly to professionals (which alienated lay readers) to only sharing stories that offer no new lessons (which felt pointless).

Overall a good read, though. Worth diving into whether you're new to CM or experienced.

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC.

[sahra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley, the publishers and Christine Caldwell, PHD for the ARC! I've been on a healing journey for several years now, and occasionally request self-help/support/alternative theory books. While I didn't finish this book as it was quite heavy, the parts that I did read were enjoyable. I would recommend this book for folkx who may be on their own healing journey and exploring new practices like conscious moving.

[Isayda Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It has a lot of practical knowledge that is easily applicable in life. I really love how grounded the practices are and reading the experiences other people used. This was the first book I read by this author, but it won't be my last!

[Laura H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very well researched

[Nadiia · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a good reading.

The compiles a set of guides and practices, explores important areas, and offers ideas ( I would like to recognize the fact that the author provides options for different levels and ages).
My only wish would be to have some of these exercises as audio or video