Teaching Dancing with Ideokinetic Principles

In examining ideokinesiology and its application to the teaching and practice of dance, Drid Williams introduces readers to the work of Dr. Lulu Sweigard (1895-1974), a pioneer of ideokinetic principles. Drawing on her experiences during private instructional sessions with Sweigard over a two-year span, Williams discusses methods using imagery for improving body posture and alignment for ease of movement. Central to Williams' own teaching methods is the application of Sweigard's tenets and general anatomical instruction, including how she used principles of imagery to help prevent dancer injuries and to increase body awareness as related to movement. Williams also emphasizes the differences between kinesthetic (internal) and mirror (external) imagery and shares reactions from dance students who were taught using ideokinesis. Williams' account of teaching and practicing ideokinesis is supplemented with essays by Sweigard, William James, and Jean George Noverre on dancing and posture. Teaching Dancing with Ideokinetic Principles offers important historical perspective and personal insight into how ideokinesis can shape a larger dance philosophy.