Clare Luiten

Somatics Tutor

Clare has a rich and extensive movement career both as a dancer and teacher of somatics, and rehabilitation practices.   Recently inspired by the Thomas Kampe Workshop, (The Art of Making Choices -  The feldenkrais method as a Choreographic resource, hosted by DANZ and The University of Auckland), ongoing Feldenkrais classes, and many hours ‘playing’ in studio, Clare has been layering this work alongside her own investigations around consciousness practice as a source for creative inspiration. This practice renders a calm, spontaneous, and dynamic space, harnessing the bodies’ energy and using it intuitively and efficiently.
 
Clare enjoys mixing imagery, clear anatomical biomechanical information, and mindfulness practices, often starting from simplicity and clarity of a singular form and seeing with softness and investigation what it will offer up.  Time is taken to follow the bodies natural energy flows, and allow space for deep body awareness.  She is also now playing with subverting these ‘offerings’ for creative/choreographic purposes.  After years of attending dance classes with specific forms, she is consciously looking to clear habitual pathways in order to find an authentic movement practice for the body, mind and spirit. Her goal is to manifest/facilitate a practice, which supports creativity, intuitive listening, body nurture and energy, and enjoyment.
 
Clare trained initially as a dancer at NZ School of Dance and also at London Contemporary Dance School, she worked freelance as a performer for 6 years in London, and completed her Pilates Mat Work Certificate, at The Place in London in 2002.   She was the director of Absolute Pilates Mt Eden, implementing and running their Teacher Training Certificate Program, as well as working with the trainers to provide excellent support for the public.  She started indepenDANCE, (many moons ago) and has created choreographic works under the company name coldharbourDANCE.