Creative writing exercise Stay grounded & motivated Share your text with us
introduction
Welcome to our online creative writing course, where we will explore the concept of release from the perspective of the body. Drawing inspiration from the release technique in both modern and contemporary dance, we will delve into how the principles of physical release can inform and enrich our writing practice.
In dance, release technique emphasizes the letting go of muscular tension to facilitate fluid movement and expression. Similarly, in writing, releasing mental and emotional barriers can unlock creativity and authenticity. Throughout this course, we will explore how releasing tension in the body can translate to releasing inhibitions in our writing, allowing for more natural and uninhibited expression.
inspirations
Release technique in dance
Ohad Naharin: "Decadance" (2000)
Release technique is a movement approach that originated in modern dance and has been further developed and adapted in contemporary dance. It focuses on letting go of muscular tension and allowing the body to move more freely and naturally.
In modern dance, release technique emerged as a response to the more rigid and codified techniques of ballet. Influential modern dance pioneers such as Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, and José Limón began to explore movement that focused on releasing tension, particularly in the torso and limbs, to achieve a more organic and natural quality of motion. This approach allowed for greater emotional expression and connectivity between the dancer and the movement.
In contemporary dance, release technique has evolved and expanded, incorporating influences from various movement practices such as somatics, improvisation, and bodywork. Contemporary choreographers and teachers continue to explore and innovate within release technique, adapting it to suit the needs of individual dancers and choreographic concepts. For example Ohad Naharin's choreography, particularly known for his creation of Gaga movement language, emphasizes release and surrender in movement. His works, such as "Deca Dance" (2000) and pieces from the Batsheva Dance Company repertoire, showcase the fluidity and freedom associated with release technique.
Key principles of release technique include:
1. Grounding: Emphasizing the connection of the body to the floor, allowing for a sense of stability and support.
2. Effortless flow: Cultivating smooth transitions between movements, avoiding tension or resistance in the body.
3. Breath awareness: Integrating breath with movement to facilitate relaxation and release of muscular tension.
4. Initiation from the core: Initiating movement from the body's center, such as the pelvis or solar plexus, to encourage a sense of connectivity and integration.
5. Dynamic range: Exploring a wide range of dynamics, from subtle and gentle to powerful and expansive, while maintaining a sense of ease and fluidity.
creative exercise
In this exercise, we'll delve into the concept of release technique in dance as a metaphor for letting go and finding freedom in your writing. Take inspiration from the principles of release technique, such as grounding, effortless flow, breath awareness, initiation from the core, and dynamic range, to inform your creative process.
Step 1: Grounding Begin by grounding yourself in the present moment. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, allowing your body to relax and connect with the earth beneath you. Feel the support of the ground beneath your feet or seat, and imagine roots extending from your body, anchoring you firmly in place.
Step 2: Effortless flow As you begin to write, focus on cultivating a sense of effortless flow in your words. Let your thoughts and ideas flow freely onto the page without judgment or self-censorship. Allow the words to come naturally, like water flowing down a gentle stream, without force or resistance.
Step 3: Breath awareness Stay attuned to your breath as you write, using it as a guide to pace your thoughts and movements. Notice how your breath changes with each word, sentence, and paragraph you write. Allow the rhythm of your breath to inform the rhythm of your writing, creating a sense of harmony and balance.
Step 4: Initiation from the core Tap into the core of your being as you explore your innermost thoughts and emotions through writing. Allow your writing to originate from a place of authenticity and vulnerability, as you delve deep into your own experiences, memories, and imagination.
Step 5: Dynamic range Experiment with the dynamic range of your writing, exploring a variety of tones, styles, and perspectives. Play with contrasts between light and shadow, tension and release, silence and sound. Allow your writing to ebb and flow like a piece of music, building to crescendos and moments of quiet introspection.
Step 6: Reflect and revise After completing your writing exercise, take some time to reflect on your work. Notice any patterns, themes, or insights that emerge from your writing process. Revise and refine your writing as needed, trusting your instincts and intuition to guide you.
Through this creative writing exercise, you'll have the opportunity to explore release technique as a metaphor for letting go, finding freedom, and expressing yourself authentically on the page. Enjoy the journey of discovery and self-expression!
stay grounded and motivated!
"As we come to the end of our creative writing journey focused on the concept of release, I want to leave you with a final thought of motivation and encouragement. Throughout this course, we have explored the transformative power of letting go—letting go of preconceived notions, self-doubt, and inner critique. Instead, we've embraced the freedom to tap into our creative flow and explore new avenues of self-expression.
As writers, it's easy to get caught up in our own minds, to second-guess ourselves, and to worry about what others may think. But true creativity blossoms when we release these constraints and allow ourselves to write from a place of authenticity and honesty. So, I encourage you to continue practicing the art of release in your writing journey.
Remember that creativity is a journey, not a destination. It's about embracing the process, trusting yourself, and allowing your unique voice to shine through. So, keep letting go, keep exploring, and keep writing with passion and purpose. Your creativity knows no bounds when you set it free.
Thank you for embarking on this journey with me. I look forward to seeing where your writing takes you next. Keep releasing, keep creating, and never stop writing from the heart. Until next time, happy writing!"
—Anna Ádám Founder of the School of Disobedience