Concurrent Session 3 – Movement-Based Embodied Contemplative Practices: Current State-of-the-Art and Future Research Directions

Compared to the extensive body of work on mindfulness-based practices, far
fewer scientific studies have examined the mechanisms underlying movement-based contemplative practices such as yoga or Qigong. One likely reason is the inherent challenge of dealing with their multifaceted nature, typically involving specific movement sequences, specialized use of the breath, and modulation of attention. Movement-based practices have, however, been shown to alleviate the symptoms of various clinical conditions, and elicit measurable changes in physiological stress markers, cognitive and motor functioning, as well as emotional states in healthy populations. An important challenge for contemplative scientists, therefore, is to advance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying these complex practices. This panel presentation will focus on the current state-of-the-art of research on movement-based practices including yoga, tai chi, the Feldenkrais Method and the Alexander Technique, and outline important avenues for future research within the field. This session will be moderated by Laura Schmalzl and Catherine Kerr.