|
|
|
 |
Gurdjieff's Movements
Introduction
What Gurdjieff's Sacred Dances are for, and how they work
|
|
The Movements are sequences of positions, gestures, asymmetric postures, counting and words to be performed simultaneously, based on rhythms marked out by pieces of music especially chosen each time. They are practised in groups, in which each member plays a specific role.
The movements work on the level of the three fundamental centres of the human being:
- Mental, involving the visualisation of certain specific mental images
- Emotional, because the gestures performed convey an emotional content
- Motor, involving the memorisation and coordination of the gestures
All three of these aspects are blended and harmonised into a single flow, unifying the mind, body and emotions. Furthermore, through them we can achieve a state of true relaxation.
"Gurdjieff explained that although a gymnast could of course do these movements, the gymnast would do them in a different way from him and that he did them in a special way with muscles relaxed." (P. D. Ouspensky, from "In Search of the Miraculous")
Does a person need particular physical abilities or knowledge of dance in order to perform the movements?
The movements can be performed by men and women, regardless of age or cultural background. No particular physical skills are required, nor does one need technical knowledge regarding dance or gymnastics.
It is very important to practise them in a context where their meaning will not be debased or misunderstood.
The movements totally absorb those who practise them: performing them correctly requires free and conscious attention.
Practising them is a deeply edifying experience, not only for the performer, but also for the audience.
|
|
|
Movements 