Somatic Dialogues Academy

LBME

Laban Bartenieff Movement Analysis (LBME)

Laban Bartenieff Movement Analysis (LBMA) is a comprehensive system used in understanding multiple aspects of human movement patterns. Its methodology incorporates a theoretical framework and clearly delineated language of movement. The system is used to identify, record and interpret both macro and micro patterns of human movement. The system is also capable of identifying and differentiating what are universal patterns common to all humans, to group patterns including culturally relevant patterns and patterns that identify unique characteristics of an individual.

Laban Movement Analysis breaks down human movement into four primary components: Body, Effort, Shape and Space. These components are linked to the different aspects of movement:

What? – BODY – sensing
Where? - SPACE – thinking
How? – EFFORT - feeling
In relation to what? – SHAPE – connection

Each of these components can be individually identified but all are also understood to be contextually interwoven. The relational aspects of these components is critical to unpacking the meaningfulness of movement patterns.

The LBMA work is supportive of making connections between the body, mind, emotions and spirit. It is by nature a tool for reflection and understanding patterns of meaning. Its strength is in its self-reflective capacity by supporting our work as human beings, artists and other professionals by helping us to become more aware of our embodied processes as we work. LBMA isn’t giving us tools to ‘fix’ others, rather gives us a greater depth and insight into the issues that people bring to us, and how appropriately we might work with those people, in a way that facilitates growth and empowerment.

Methods

LBME

SRT

Contact Improvisation

BMC