Purpose

Why I am here

During my two-plus decades of movement research and study of the movement of the African Diaspora, I noticed that movement is examined through the lens of anthropology. There is attention given to the gesturing, and repetitive movement, but my interest resides within the science of the movement. My research furthers the notion of movement from the African Diaspora as a medium for rapid sensory integration due to the employment of all information systems.  Within traditional African societies, movement diagnosis and corrects improper alignment that manifest in the form of bad health. Coping mechanisms created through song and dance teaches individuals how to regulate extreme emotions and manage trauma (Wall).   The multi-tasking/ polyrhythmic nature of West African and Diasporic dance includes movement that parallels all of the development movement patterns. The ideology of Afrocentrism (Pan –African) lead me to draw inspiration from two sayings “The destruction of society begins in its homes” and “Heal a woman heal a nation.” My focal point is the pelvic (Root chakra) region since it is the place where women nurture life and store pain.  I believe that a positive association with the pelvis will increase somatics, support a healthier woman and thus a healthier household

As an educator, my research involves movement of the African Diaspora to dismantle rigid survival patterns created by a gap in developmental movement patterns. The complexity of this genre of movement with its varied use of cross-lateral movement allows both sides of the brain to talk to one another increasing reading and math tendencies and making students better apt for learning.  In my work I combine the use of movement, wrting, discussion and storytelling to create a space for individual growth because it is my belief that some mental, physical, spiritual and emotional ailments can be addressed through the use of and without the use of artificial substances.

SOURCES

Wall, Nicole N. Montiero and Diana J. " African Dance as Healing Modality Throughout the Diaspora: The Use of Ritual and Movement to Work Through Trauma by ." Journal of Pan African Studies 4.6 (2011): 235-249.