Dance Techniques 2010

286
Understanding the Body / Movement
complicated and technically accomplished, rather the
movement is made interesting by the quick, newly found
alignment in space, or when exploring principles of rotation.
With Gries, this happens through exercises and variations
felt quasi ‘microscopically’, like the diaphragm’s
minimal sway while lying down, through the partner’s
rocking hand movements, or in a contralateral pulling
through the entire body carried out when standing by a
partner gently and continuously pulling on an arm positioned
diagonally across the body.
Specifically designated training or movement forms run
counter to Release Technique; it defines itself for the most
part ex negativo, i.e., from what a body releases. Rest is
thus a movement that often appears in training. Laying
on the floor in a Constructive Rest Position (CRP)— a
stable position in which the body must expend very little
effort—the body can feel into specific regions or themes
and can direct attention to these, similar to a guided meditation.
This enables awareness of anatomical connections
between individual body parts above and beyond the immediate
situation.
The only principles of Release Technique are based on figurative
perceptions inspired by the range of somatic studies
that picture the alignment of the bones and joints in
space. Essential, for instance from Alexander Technique, is
the principle of up, forward and out: the spine is imagined
upward, and this line continues in an arc above the head
heading out into the space, from inside to outside, and
further downward and forward—into the future.
“Lean myself back into my spine. Trust
that the things will come to me and
that I don’t have to search for anything—
that’s what it’s about.”
Siri Clinckspoor, student
Sketch: Lance Gries