embodied lightness
A MOVEMENT EXPERIENCE TO FEEL SPACIOUS IN YOUR OWN SKIN
Most of us carry a quiet, chronic 'grip' in our bodies -- the physical remains of hyper-vigilance and over-extending. Embodied Lightness is a session designed to help you release that bracing and experience a restorative sigh of relief that you can carry into the rest of your day.
We focus on the underlying foundations that make dancing, walking, or any type of movement feel lighter, steadier, and more fun.
THE EXPERIENCE
In this class, we use very light, gentle partnering as a tool for your own discovery. You will experience embodied receptivity -- receiving subtle cues through a soft touch on the hand or upper back -- to see, how does it feel to be moved to move rather than moving from your head?
So often we initiate movement mentally. We decide how something should look, anticipate what comes next, or try to perform it correctly. When movement begins in the head, the body often follows with subtle bracing: the shoulders lift, the jaw tightens, and the breath becomes shallow. Over time, this "performing" can leave us feeling tense, burnt out, and disconnected from ourselves.
Here, we explore something different. What happens when movement emerges from clearing the path for life force energy rather than from exerting more effort? The ocean is moved to move; there is a reason we feel calm watching waves roll in and out. When we witness something being moved by the life energy animating it there is an effortlessness we feel -- an ease that feels like a quiet sigh of relief. This class is an invitation to feel that spaciousness in your own body.
HOW WE MOVE
Through simple guided activities, you explore leading and responsiveness in real time. You have full control: work on your own, partner with someone you bring, or try partnering with others only if you want to. Sessions are held with clear boundaries and care for individual comfort.
The emphasis is on learning to listen and respond to sensation, moving from a cue you feel rather than from the thoughts of the mind. We acknowledge that most of us are used to living in our heads, so this may feel unfamiliar at first. That is not a problem; in fact, it means you are in the right place.
This class may be for you if:
You often feel tension in your shoulders, jaw, or breath.
In life, you tend to anticipate what you think is coming soon rather than respond to what is happening.
You are curious about how to embody a receptive partner dance foundation.
You want to feel more steady, natural, and spacious moving through life.
You enjoy trying new experiences that make you laugh in a boundaries celebrated, low-pressure environment.
FAQ
Do I need a partner?
No. You're welcome to come on your own. Most participants arrive solo, and you'll have the option to work entirely on your own or try partnering with others if you choose. If you bring a partner, you are welcome to stay together the whole time.
What if I’m nervous about touch?
It’s okay to feel hesitant. You are in full control: you can work solo, simply observe, or explore partnering only when you feel ready. I offer options for every exercise, and "no" is always a respected (and celebrated) answer. I show everything we’ll be doing before we start so there are no surprises.
What happens in the first five minutes?
I’ll welcome everyone, explain the structure of the hour, and review how consent works. Then we'll start with simple solo movement to help you arrive in your body. No one will be put on the spot.
Is this for everybody?
Yes. Whether you have a background in movement or not, this class is for you. You are invited to simply explore the experience for what it is and notice what you discover.
WAYS TO WORK TOGETHER
One-on-one sessions with Laura (Standard rate: $100)
As a pair, with Laura facilitating your experience
In a small group class (Held in the park; $15 per person)
Next Group Class: Saturday, March 28 | 3–4pm
Location: Ventura Outdoor Park TBA, Ventura, CA
Class size is limited to 12 participants to ensure individualized care and a supportive environment.
Send a message to reserve your spot →
To get a sense of how participants feel after a session, visit the testimonials page → and watch videos 1 and 2.