Reading is much like dance; we absord the wisdom of the ideas and words on the pages, then transform them into our own expressions.
The following list is a short library of books that have supported me as a movement activist and dancefloor explorer. WIse words that help guide self-practice, group dynamics and stepping up as a teacher and leader.
Drop your most treasured reads in the comments below. Let’s create a library of wonder and support.
Dance Imagery : Technique & Performance by Eric Franklin
This book has traveled with me all over the world. I have devoured it on deck chairs (bit of light reading), scrambled through it on studio floors and scribbled all over it on hotel beds. A bible of creative movement and practical dance ideas, Dance Imagery teaches how to bring life to movement and the living to dance.
Maps to Ecstacy: A healing journey for the untamed spirit by Gabrielle Roth
“If you just set people in motion they’ll heal themselves.”
If full body, mind and soul expression is what you desire to tap into in your movement and your teaching then this book is for you.
The Power of Shakti: 18 Pathways to Ignite the Energy of the Divine Woman
For the mover and shaker no longer excited by merely dancing on the surface. Ready to go deep? The principles in this book will guide you there, the rest is up to you. Enjoy.
Big Magic : Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
“The universe buries strange jewels deep within us all, and then stands back to see if we can find them.”
A must read for the modern day creative. Pages filled with permission to create for no other reason than it is your birthright. Some wonderful musings about inspiration and how to interact with it. A powerful reminder and a beautiful read.
Your Creative Soul: Expressing Your Authentic Voice by Caroline Myss & Sandra Joseph
A beautiful audio book that is worth taking some time out of your life to listen to whether you see yourself as “a creative” or not. In fact, if there are blocks in your way then this is the listen for you!
Please, please listen to this!
Playing Big: Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead by Tara Mohr
Could easily be renamed “Sorting Your Inner Shiz Out”. Tara Mohr spends much of the first half of this book giving practical solutions for dealing with your inner critic; understanding her and building a relationship with her. The Future Self and Inner Mentor work in this book is life altering.
Pussy: A Reclamation
Taking back power. Empowering stories of radiance, realness and feminine power. Not just for the ladies. For all.
Inclusive Creative Movement and Dance
Teaching students with various ability levels? This book offers suggestions for movement exploration that will support a wide range of students.
Sweat Your Prayers: Movement as Spiritual Practice by Gabrielle Roth
The wave of 5 Rhythms but oh so much more. Yes to more.
Dance/Movement Therapy: A Healing Art
If you view dance and hooping as a healing practice and you seek to provide support for your student’s on multiple levels then this book will provide many moments that you resonate with.
The Art and Science of Dance/Movement Therapy: Life Is Dance
If you hope to create lasting change through movement as therapy; this book is a beautiful guiding light.
Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All
“Like a muscle, your creative abilities will grow and strengthen with practice.”
Oh so much gold! Rich, delicious words of wisdom to fuel your movement, leadership and creativity. Love to hear your book reviews on any of these and also grab your top books list.
I will continue to add more and more as they come to me.
(this blog post contains affiliate links from Amazon, you don’t have to click them. If you choose to, I may get a minimal amount of affiliate payment from your purchase, at no extra cost to you. You can also find these books on Audible, another great way to absorb the info)
