Dance/Movement Therapy Combined with Tai-chi as a Regulation Strategy for Children Who Have Experienced Trauma: Developing a Method

Author

Brenna MeindersmaFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-21-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Carla Velazquez-Garcia

Abstract

This capstone thesis examines the question of how dance/movement therapy can be combined with tai-chi to support the emotional regulation of children who have experienced trauma. The paper examines a possible method that combines dance/movement therapy with tai-chi, grounded in the theories of Trudi Schoop. It highlights the application of tai-chi as a movement intervention that impacts participants ability to engage in treatment. Through the literature it was found that dance/movement therapy techniques of deep breathing, balance, and slow, rhythmic movements can impact emotional regulation. In combination with dance/movement therapy and tai-chi principles of internal awareness, body alignment, and weight control a method was developed. There were seven participants who engaged with the method. Through the development of the method, dance/movement therapy when combined with tai-chi was found to have an impact on participants ability to regulate and engage in treatment.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Meindersma, Brenna, "Dance/Movement Therapy Combined with Tai-chi as a Regulation Strategy for Children Who Have Experienced Trauma: Developing a Method" (2022). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 546.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/546