Loving Our Bodies Through Somatic Dance with Jane Hawley

In this episode of the Brave Space Podcast, host Matthew Nelson engages in a conversation about how authentic artistry applies to all of us with Jane Hawley, the director of the dance program at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. Together, they explore Jane's pioneering approach to dance education which she has been developing and refining over the past 25 years. Unlike the mainstream dance movement, Jane's program is founded on a somatic perspective that includes contact improvisation and integrates life force and spirit into the artistry. They discuss how dancers can learn to love their bodies, expand their creative capacities, and find meaning beyond traditional dance forms through Movement Fundamentals. The conversation also dives into the importance of somatics, the significance of authentic self-expression, and the transformative power of community and witnessing in dance. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the intersections of dance, somatics, and spiritual growth. 00:00 Introduction to the Brave Space Podcast 00:40 Meet Jane Hawley: A Pioneer in Somatic Dance 01:47 The Essence of Somatic Dance 03:01 Jane's Journey: From Traditional to Somatic Dance 08:03 Exploring Movement Vocabulary 09:24 The Role of Contact Improvisation 13:50 Witnessing and Authentic Movement 29:11 Reflective Watching: How Do We Observe? 30:03 Creating Art and Witnessing Each Other 31:21 The Power of Vulnerability and Belonging 32:31 Exploring Authenticity in Performance 32:55 Artistry in Everyday Life 35:04 Rewilding Ourselves 38:52 Spirit and Energy in Artistic Practice 43:32 Body as Primary Source Material 48:06 The Artistry of Living and Giving Back 50:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts