A Swedish dancer with EDS
Written by Charlotte, published about 1 month ago.
Photo by Michael Baumgarten
As a young dancer I had several injuries and realized I needed to learn more about my body, and how to use it in dance, in order to fulfill my dream of dancing. In 1975, 19 years old, I started Pilates training. As an adult, and as a teacher and physical therapist, I realize how much of a foundation that gave me for life. I now teach Pilates to dancers, to people with EDS and other patients.
Notice that Pilates techniques and instructors can vary a lot and it is important to find a teacher with good understanding of hypermobility. Through many years of experience in the field of dance, and hypermobility, I have a unique knowledge that can be of service for the EDS community.
EDS is a genetic syndrome. The collagen fibers are the foundation of the connective tissue. They are sparse, less elastic, and somewhat weak. Signs can be hypermobile and unstable joints, soft and overly elastic skin, bruises, excessive bleeding, gum problems etc.
It is important to know your body and understand its needs in order to give it the best support and care at every moment. Through the understanding of good posture, of basic anatomy and functional movement, you are given better options to support your own body, and to learn what specific needs you may have. A good posture creates better circumstances for the muscles and the skeleton. When the muscles and the skeleton work in harmony, it is less demanding and tiring. And, your energy will serve you longer.
At the same time, it is crucial to understand the importance of rest. To hold together a “loosely strung skeleton” is hard work. You may benefit from understanding that small moments of rest, throughout the day, are helpful when planning a day.
FLOOR-BARRE™
In 1978 in New York I met Zena Rommett, founder of the Zena Rommett Floor-Barre® Technique. Having EDS and learning her technique added to my own stability, ability and joy in how to move and dance. I became certified by Zena in the Zena Rommett Floor-Barre® Technique
I started teaching the Floor-Barre™ technique in 1978 and have taught all levels since.
I taught dancers at The Royal Swedish Ballet from 1993-2000, and now teach dancers privately in my own studio. I recently taught classes at the 2011 New York seminar, and had feedback telling that I am "the most authentic teacher", and teach with "great dignity and calm".
Floor-Barre™ is a series of movements done lying on the floor and is in many cases also very suitable for people with EDS. It will correct the body alignment and release tension throughout the body. It strengthens the muscles and joints, rehabilitates and prevents injuries. Floor-Barre™ prepares the body for the standing positions and supports your daily activities. You develop awareness of your own ability, and through respecting that, improvement comes quickly. The technique is gentle and yet very effective.
Floor-Barre™ combines movements with anatomical principles of alignment. Using the floor, Floor-Barre™ strengthens and properly corrects the placement of the pelvis, hips and back. Your mind and body are concentrated and engaged to work together. This in itself is relaxing. You will do simple yet strengthening movements, while lying on the floor, with careful guidance and precise instruction.
The method was originally created for dancers. It is however helpful for all people in need of body alignment and support.
Through the website, you can find Floor-Barre™ teachers in many of the European countries.
www.floor-barre.org
Written by Charlotte, published about 1 month ago.
One comment for «A Swedish dancer with EDS»
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Hy Charlotte, you don´t imagine the joy that i had to read your testimony :) thank's