This module will provide advanced study of somatic practices that promote a healthy and mindful approach to movement. The continued development of an integrated mind/body approach will enable students to perform with greater efficiency and will minimize their risk of injury.

Students are required to attend workshops in which they study how somatic practices can support them in further developing an enhanced awareness of embodied movement. These workshops will be based on principles drawn from Pilates, Yoga, Feldenkrais, Body-Mind-Centering and T'ai Chi

Demonstrate an understanding of the key theoretical principles that underpin the field of Somatics. Display a critically engaged understanding of somatic practices.

Demonstrate an embodied understanding of somatic principles and practices. Identify the role and function of Somatics in injury prevention.

Perform somatic activities with a clear sense of embodiment. Adapt somatic practices, as appropriate, for a range of contexts; performance, choreography and teaching.

This module will be taught through a series of workshops from specialists in the field of somatic education and supported by ongoing classes such as yoga and body awareness techniques. It will reflect current good practice in conservatoires and educational establishments worldwide where performance programmes are taught ( see Wilson, Batson and Quin 2012). It will contribute to the body based skills of all performers and also facilitate creativity through increased mind-body awareness. It will become a platform for responsible independent learning as these students continue their studies and performance careers after graduation. It will render them somatically articulate and allow for fluid, informed, extended and safe expression of artistic outputs. This module is very closely related to the Autumn semester module 'Introduction to Somatics'. It will engage related practices or different approaches to the same practices but does not require students to have registered for or passed the first semeter module.