Eating Disorder Articles

"The Body Says What Words Cannot"

From the Sunflower Newsletter, May, 2006

This quote from Martha Graham is a perfect description of Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT), one of the many creative arts therapies used at Mirasol Eating Disorder Recovery Centers. Robin Memel Fox, one of our primary therapists, is both a registered Dance/Movement Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor.

The American Dance Therapy Association defines DMT as "the psychotherapeutic use of movement as a process which furthers the emotional, cognitive and physical integration of the individual". Dance/movement therapists work with both groups and individuals in a wide variety of settings, helping clients improve self-esteem, body image, and self-awareness by expanding their movement vocabulary and creating new coping skills.

DMT therapist Robin Memel Fox (right) demonstrates dance therapy techniques with assistance from Ana Guzman (left), a summer intern from Spain. The stretchy blanket is used to promote trust and support. "It's very Martha Graham," says Robin.

"Dance and movement are basic forms of authentic communication," says Robin. Because they are direct expressions of the self in relation to the body, they can be used to help individuals identify strengths, feelings, memories and behaviors. Experiences of past physical, emotional and sexual trauma stored in the body may be evoked through movement expression, providing clients with new ways to express their emotions without the need for words. This is particularly helpful for people with eating disorders, who often detach from their physical selves to avoid painful emotions, sensations and memories. DMT is also a powerful antidote to the distorted body images that are common in eating disordered individuals.

A typical DMT session might include the use of recorded music or instruments, props such as scarves, balls and "Body Sox"™. Music may serve as a catalyst, but not always. Some clients move without music, as the therapist guides them to explore their internal rhythms, sensations, emotions and tensions within the body.

"There's no set formula for a DMT session," Robin explains. Content evolves organically within the group through cooperative or solo movement, dance, games, free expression and play. The therapist creates safe environment and serves as a witness to the client, observing the body, guiding and verbally processing the movements.

"For clients who are traumatized and disconnected from their bodies, just becoming aware of one's breath and simple body sensations can be a huge step," according to Robin. Some clients - especially clients with formal dance training - struggle to let go of their "inner critics," but most will be surprised by how much they are able to let themselves go while learning new ways to express themselves.

To learn more about DMT, visit the American Dance Therapy Association website at www.adta.org.