Madelyn Moon - Creative Intimacy & Embodied Expression
How do we transcend the static idea of authenticity as a noun and embrace it as a dynamic, ever-evolving process? A recent conversation between Madelyn Moon and Steven Jaggers delves into the world of soma centric practices, revealing a transformative approach to unleashing our most genuine selves. Somatic intelligence, as described by Jaggers, offers a fresh perspective on authenticity. Rather than viewing it as a fixed state, he paints it as a verb, a process, and a journey of continuous change. As Moon eloquently puts it, "You're like an ever-evolving being. The you yesterday is going to be different than the you tomorrow."
This fluid perspective directly challenges the notion of imposter syndrome, a concept that often plagues those seeking authenticity. Jaggers suggests that imposter syndrome can serve as a guidepost for expansion. It's a sensation that arises when we push the boundaries of our comfort zone, indicating that we're venturing into uncharted territory. Steven likens it to trying on different personas or outfits—experimenting with aspects of ourselves that might feel unfamiliar. This, he asserts, is the key to expanding our capacity for genuine expression.
The path to authentic expression, according to Jaggers, is grounded in somatic practices that engage the body, emotions, and mind in a bottom-up process. One of the most notable modalities, Somatic breathwork, allows humans to achieve these goals simply through conscious breathing. This process begins with embracing discomfort and pushing the boundaries of expression. Moon echoes this sentiment, drawing parallels to ecstatic dance, a practice that encourages individuals to break free from the confines of their minds and tap into their soma by moving in unconventional ways. While it may seem intimidating, this discomfort holds the key to unlocking a broader physical and emotional experience. Madelyn's work in guiding individuals to become the main characters in their lives further exemplifies the power of somatic practices.
Through group activities and theatrical projects, Moon encourages participants to step out of their comfort zones, challenging them to interact with the world from new perspectives. By engaging in performative experiences, people can shed inhibitions, fostering a deeper connection to their authentic selves. The heart of this approach lies in the concept of "embedding." Jaggers emphasizes that embodying new shapes and forms is essential to expanding our capacity for authenticity. Just as actors internalize their roles to bring characters to life, individuals can adopt and embrace various aspects of themselves.
Through somatic practices like breathwork, people begin to discover the nuances of their emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations, allowing them to tap into a more profound sense of self. In a society often fixated on outcomes and results, this approach encourages a shift towards the process itself. The journey becomes a constant exploration of emotions, energies, and identities that present themselves on any given day. By acknowledging and allowing these experiences to flow through us, we open doors to greater self-understanding and authenticity.
As we navigate the complex landscape of modern existence, the pursuit of authenticity is more vital than ever. Madelyn Moon and Steven Jaggers offer a refreshing perspective—one that transcends the static notions of identity and embraces the fluidity of being. Through somatic-centric practices, they invite us to embody the ever-evolving verb that is authenticity, reminding us that our true expression is not a destination but an ongoing, transformative journey.
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